After a slow start, the Pike County Salvation Army’s 2017 Red Kettle Campaign closed as the must successful of kettle campaigns for the local social service organization.

“We just didn’t have the volunteers that we usually have and giving seemed to be less enthusiastic,” said Kim May, director of the local Salvation Army Service Center. “We just prayed that this would be a successful year because the needs are great. And, prayer changes things because the Pike County 2017 Red Kettle Campaign ended with $48,441.29. That was more than the $45,000 that was donated last year. In fact, it was better than ever.”

May said prayers were answered and several sizable donations came in near the end of the Red Kettle season that helped make the fundraising campaign a success.

“I want to thank everyone who contributed in any way,” she said. “I want to especially thank Steve and Tamara Stephens who lead the campaign, and all of the individuals, churches, clubs, organizations, businesses that volunteered as bell ringers and all of those who gave so generously. I also want to thank our Salvation Army board members for their commitment to our cause and the businesses that allowed us to ring our bells — Walmart, Walgreen’s, Piggly Wiggly 231 and Piggly Wiggly North Three Notch, Momma Goldberg’s and Sisters Restaurant, all in Troy, Piggly Wiggly in Brundidge, Walmart in Eufaula and Food Depot and Ramey’s in Luverne. All together, we had a very successful Red Kettle Campaign and the money raised will help friends and neighbors in need right here at home.”

May said the Red Kettle fundraiser will support the Pike County Salvation Army’s social services programs as needs arise throughout the year.

“We also had several food drives that benefited our food pantry and we greatly appreciate those donations,” she said. “We always need and appreciate monetary donations and donations of non-perishable food items for the food pantry and clothing, furniture and miscellaneous items for our Thrift Store.”

May said donations made to the Thrift Store are tax deductible and the money raised stays at home to meet local needs.