A Central New York Salvation Army will ring a bell for 24 hours straight in an effort to raise funds to bring Christmas to local families.

Salvation Army Red Kettles and bell ringers are as much a part of the holiday season as Christmas trees. Those bell ringers, and the money they raise, help support the work of each Salvation Army - including their "family assistance program" which brings provides families in need with Christmas dinner and gifts for children.

The Rome Salvation Army - led by Alan Krueger - runs such a program. He tells the Rome Sentinel, this year the program is set to help nearly 331 families - which include about 900 children.

In order to raise enough money, Krueger says they have a big event: 24 hours of non-stop bell ringing. The 24 hours kicks off at 6pm on Friday, December 21 and continues until 6pm Saturday, December 22 outside the Rome Walmart. According to Krueger, up to $10,000 of donations will be matched by sponsors - and they've already got $6,000 in donations pledged. 

If you'd like to pledge a donation, you can contact the Salvation in Rome at 315-336-4290. Otherwise, just stop by the Rome Walmart and add your donation to the Red Kettle Campaign.

 

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