Santa Claus will make a short stop in Troy today to kick off the Pike County Salvation Army’s 2014 Red Kettle campaign at Food World and Piggly Wiggly 231.

Kim May, Pike County Salvation Army director, said local businesses that allow the Salvation Army bells to be rung at their locations are vital to the success of the annual fundraising campaign.

“If we don’t have places to ring the bells, then we can’t collect donations that are used to assist people in need in our own county,” May said. “All of the money that is donated to the Red Kettle campaign in Pike County stays right at here at home to help friends and neighbors during their time of need.”

May expressed appreciation to Food World, Walmart and Piggly Wiggly 231 in Troy and Piggly Wiggly in Brundidge for their continued support of the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign.

“We are excited that Santa Claus will kick off our 2014 fundraising campaign as a bell ringer,” May said. “Santa Claus is the spirit of giving and we so much appreciate his support.’

The ringing of the Salvation Army bells will begin at Walmart on Nov. 29.

“Because Thanksgiving comes so late this year, we will have a short Red Kettle season,” May said. “But we believe that the people of Pike County will continue to give generously.”

John Danner, Food World manager, said that Food World is proud to support the Red Kettle campaign.

“We’ve been doing this for a long time,” Danner said. “Hearing the Salvation Army bells ringing is part of the Christmas tradition. A lot of people look forward to the Red Kettle campaign. Those bells are among the sounds of the season. I enjoy hearing them. It’s what Christmas is all about, giving to those less fortunate.”

May said this year’s Red Kettle campaign has gotten a boost from its Red Kettle sponsors, Court Referral and Drug Court Services (Dennis Griffith), KW Plastics, Sanders Lead, First National Bank, Troy Exchange Club, Troy Bank & Trust and Horn Beverage.

“Our Red Kettle sponsors will get our 2014 campaign off to a great start and we appreciate their support just as we appreciate the support of everyone who drops a dollar or a dime in the kettle,” May said.

The Pike County’s Gold Kettle campaign is set for Dec. 13 and local celebrities will ring the bell for those in need in their community.

May said volunteers are always needed as bell ringers.

“If you’ve never been a bell ringer, you’ll be surprised how much it means to see the generosity of the people of our community and to be a part of helping so many people in so many ways all year long,” May said. “We encourage churches, organizations, clubs, school groups, youth groups and individuals to be apart of this year’s Red Kettle campaign. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.”

To volunteer as a bell ringer for the Pike County Salvation Army this Christmas season, call May at 334-808-1069.