Longview’s Salvation Army Bell-Ringer Drives Community Support

As the holiday season unfolds, the annual Red Kettle campaign by the Salvation Army is once again in full swing. Debra Ward, a dedicated bell-ringer, has taken her position outside the Walmart on Estes Parkway in Longview, Texas, where she encourages shoppers to contribute to the organization’s mission. The campaign is crucial for raising funds to support those in need during this particularly vulnerable time of year.

Ward has been ringing bells for the Salvation Army since 2018, inviting passersby to drop coins and cash into the iconic red buckets. The funds collected during this campaign play a vital role in operating homeless shelters, providing disaster relief, and assisting individuals in regaining stability in their lives. The organization’s motto, “Doing the Most Good,” reflects its commitment to community support.

Community Engagement and Personal Connection

For Ward, bell-ringing is not merely a source of supplemental income; it is also a way to connect with her community. “I like bell-ringing because I like to see the people, and I like greeting them,” she shared. “Seeing happy, smiling people come by to drop money in the bucket gives me a good feeling.” The interactions she has with donors, including a young girl who made multiple donations, highlight the personal connections that make this role meaningful.

Ward, who actively engages with shoppers, wears a blue baseball cap that reads “Love Like Jesus,” a testament to her support of the Christian values underpinning the Salvation Army. She expressed her pride in supporting an organization that “really puts their money where it belongs in the community.”

Funding Goals and Continued Efforts

The Salvation Army in Longview has set an ambitious goal of raising $200,000 through this year’s Red Kettle campaign. Ward remains hopeful that the community will meet this target, recognizing the critical support it provides to those experiencing hardship. As she greeted a donor on Wednesday afternoon, she wished them a “memorable Thanksgiving and Christmas,” embodying the spirit of giving that defines the season.

Bell ringers like Ward can be found at various locations, including Walmart and Sam’s Club, throughout the holiday season until December 24. Their efforts are part of a larger nationwide initiative, reflecting the collective commitment to support vulnerable populations during the holidays. Ward’s dedication not only helps raise funds but also fosters a sense of community and compassion during this special time of year.