Angel Tree
The Angel Tree Program matches donors with children from qualified families and provides you with a tag that symbolizes a child in one of our programs. Each tag represents the wishes and desires of a real child or youth. For many donors, the personal connection to a child in their community has become a special tradition. For participating companies and groups, the sponsorship program is a wonderful opportunity for employees to give back to their community through a fun and heartwarming tradition.
Red Kettle Appeal
The Christmas Kettle (also referred to as the Red Kettle due to its color) is The Salvation Army's most famous street campaign. It is most recognized during the Christmas season through its volunteers who stand outside of businesses and play or sing Christmas carols, or ring bells to inspire passersby to place donations of cash and checks inside the trademark red kettles.
A tradition on the "kettle" started in 1891, in San Francisco, by Salvation Army officer Captain Joseph McFee. Captain McFee, resolving to provide a free Christmas dinner to the poor of San Francisco, remembered a sight he saw in Liverpool, England. From his days as a sailor McFee remembered a large pot displayed on the Stage Landing, called "Simpson's Pot." The pot took in donations put in by passersby. Taking this idea, McFee asked for permission from San Francisco city authorities to place a crab pot and tripod at the Oakland ferry landing. The kettle — and McFee's call of "Keep the Pot Boiling!" — drew in passengers and donations.
The idea spread, and is in use by many Salvation Army charities worldwide. Innovations from the crab pot have included self ringing kettles, booths that play Christmas music, and Credit Card capabilities.
Shoes distribution for children
The salvationists also give shoes to needy children during the winter season.
