New London – The Salvation Army continues to encourage residents in the greater New London area to contribute to its annual Red Kettle Campaign.

In addition to having bell ringers at various locations in the greater New London area, the Salvation Army also offers an online campaign at https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/GIVEGNL/.

The Salvation Army provides food, clothing, comfort and care to local residents as well as people in need across the United States. Assistance includes food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children.

Salvation Army of Southern New England has set a Red Kettle fundraising goal of $1.8 million. Kettle income supports a variety of programs and services in southern New England, including food pantries, shelters, emergency assistance, summer camp programs, school readiness, as well as holiday assistance.

At the Salvation Army, 82 cents of every dollar that is donated goes back to programs that serve the hungry, homeless, frail and lonely, according to the agency.

The money raised not only helps during Christmas, but also sustains vital programs and services throughout the year. Nationally, more than 30 million Americans are served by the Salvation Army each year. Thousands of volunteers will staff red kettles on street corners nationwide, collecting nickels, dimes, quarters and occasionally a gold coin.

In the greater New London area, bell ringers are posted at area Stop & Shops, Buffalo Wild Wings, Flanders IGA, Walmart, JC Penney and Macy's at the Crystal Mall.

For more information, visit: http://ctri.salvationarmy.org/SNE/NewLondon