Champaign, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Salvation Army of Champaign County is set to launch its 2025 “Give With Joy” Red Kettle Campaign on November 7, 2025, with a ceremonial bell ringing at 12:00 p.m. at Prairie Gardens in Champaign. The event will feature remarks from local leaders and a performance by the Salvation Army Brass Band. Prairie Gardens has been a longtime partner and supporter of the campaign.

The Salvation Army aims to raise $200,000 this holiday season to continue providing essential services to the 96,000 people they serve each year in the community. These services include food assistance, emergency shelter, veteran services, and poverty-reduction programs. Last year, the Salvation Army distributed over 227,000 items through their food pantry, provided 22,350 Christmas gifts for children, and helped 154 families through their Pathway of Hope program.

“We’ve seen the impact of the community’s generosity firsthand,” said Captains Kenyon and Melissa Sivels, leaders of the Champaign County branch. “Every donation, large or small, brings hope and stability to those who need it most.”

Funds raised will help ensure year-round support for the increasing needs in the community, with the food pantry seeing upwards of 500 visitors a day recently. Donations can be made at Red Kettles, online, or via mobile payment apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. Volunteers are also encouraged to sign up to assist with the campaign.

For more information on how to contribute or volunteer, visit sachampaign.org or call 217-373-7832.