Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
By CHARITY SMITH
Ironwood - The Salvation Army is in need of volunteers who are willing to combat the cold to ring a bell and gather donations this Christmas season for its annual Red Kettle campaign.
Local Salvation Army Director Jamie Stiffarm said they are "really behind in donations this year." She said the only red kettle they have out this year is inside the Walgreens in Ironwood.
Stiffarm said she wishes she could have a kettle up inside Walmart, but the corporation will not permit them to be inside; so there will be a bucket outside of Walmart when there is a volunteer to ring the bell.
According to Stiffarm there are several bell ringing shifts available for those willing to brave the cold.
The Salvation Army will use bell ringers until late afternoon on Dec. 24.
Stiffarm said the need is great in the community and they've been called on a lot recently.
"We've really been hit hard within the last month and a half because of the fires in Ironwood and Bessemer," said Stiffarm. "People outside the area have been helping, but I am really worried about funds because it is so costly to help people when they are in a motel. Depending on size of family you can't just put them in one room. ... It is really very costly i'm really grateful for the people in the community that have really stepped up and helped. They are really looking out for there fellow man and I am so grateful that they are trying to do that."
It costs several thousand dollars to house and feed the families, Stiffarm said. She said that along with helping fire victims, the organization helps provide food and shelter to others in need, provides veterans with transportation or a tank of gas to get to and from appointments, and gathers toys for kids at Christmas through the Santa's Workshop program.
"There are so many different types of needs," said Stiffarm. "I am hoping and praying for at least $50,000 again this year. To me, it's neighbor helping neighbor with a donation. It's a community coming together to help each other."
Stiffarm said she is grateful to those who do donate and said she tries to stretch every dollar out to help as many individuals as possible.
Those interested in bell ringing can call 715-364-3551 Lee Anderson or call Stiffarm at 715-360-8563.
Donations can also be end to Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign, P.O. Box 86, Ironwood, MI 49938.