By Lisa Voyles

Chickasaw Journal

HOUSTON - The Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign is well known throughout the nation as a means to help the less fortunate not only during the holiday season, but year-round. This year, SA is joined in partnership with the Wal-Mart companies to kick off the campaign in a big way.

On Nov. 8, bell ringers will be on site to give the campaign an extra boost with a nation-wide emphasis on community assistance from volunteers.

amp"They will be ringing at every Wal-Mart and Sam's Club across the nation,amp" said Houston Salvation Army Director, Trisha Finn. amp"The funds raised will be divided into the Salvation Armies in the four national regions.amp"

The Houston Exchange club has entered the partnership and promised to provide bell ringers for the day in 30-minute shifts. Donations will be used to assist the less fortunate not only during the holidays, but throughout the year. The Salvation Army provides assistance for emergency shelter, food, clothing, medications and various other social service. The Kettle campaign is the largest and most wide-spread fund raising event for the institution.

Ringers wanted

Although the Houston Exchange club will be on site to jingle the bells for the kick-off, more volunteers are needed to complete the regular Kettle campaign that goes on throughout the holiday season. Finn has enlisted the help of individuals, church, school and service groups in the past and is calling on them again to help others.

amp"The regular campaign will begin on Nov. 17 at Grocer's Pride,amp" Finn said. amp"We'll begin at Wal Mart on Nov. 28.amp"

Kettles will be out Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve at both locations and ringers are the key to a successful campaign.

amp"When we don't have enough people to ring, we have to hire them and that cuts into the money that can stay in our community to help others,amp" Finn said.

Two-hour shifts are available at both locations. Kettles, bells and holiday music are provided. Volunteers willing to help others are needed.

For information or to sign up for a shift, call the Salvation Army at 456-0070 or stop by on West Washington Street behind the Houston Post Office.