Salvation Army Kicks Off 2025 Red Kettle Season in Front Royal with Song, Spirit, and Community Support

The familiar sound of bells and the sight of red kettles returned to Front Royal on November 15 as the Salvation Army officially launched its 2025 Red Kettle Campaign outside Rural King in the Royal Plaza Shopping Center. With prayers, holiday music, and a strong show of community support, the event marked the beginning of another season of giving to support local families in need.

The kickoff began with warm greetings from Salvation Army representatives and a heartfelt prayer from Reverend Al Woods, who asked for blessings over the community and the campaign. “We are asking for your divine intervention,” he prayed. “Gift us with your blessings as we work to help those in need.”

The festive tone continued as Dwight Myers led the crowd in singing “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” a spirited performance that underscored the joy of the season and the heart behind the campaign.

This year, the Salvation Army is proud to partner with Rural King, a new supporter and host location for bell ringers. David Tabor, Store Manager at Rural King, welcomed the organization and community members. “We’re proud to have the Salvation Army here on-site this holiday season to support our local community,” he said.

Front Royal Town Council member Glenn Wood spoke of the Salvation Army’s long-standing presence in the region. “They’ve been part of this town since the early 1950s,” he said, recalling memories of bell ringers from his own childhood. “Your gift in these red kettles touches this community in ways many people don’t even realize.”

Wood also noted the town’s active support of the effort. Town employees are given eight hours of public service leave each year, and 25 of them have already signed up to ring bells. Local civic organizations, such as the Rotary Club and Kiwanis, as well as several area churches, have also committed to ringing this year.

186 Local Children Need Your Help

One of the most pressing needs this holiday season is the Angel Tree program, which ensures that children in struggling households receive Christmas gifts. This year, 186 children are registered, with about 70% already adopted. The Salvation Army is calling on residents to help cover the remaining children by adopting an angel at the Salvation Army Church.

Elizabeth Clark, who manages the food bank and Angel Tree program, is helping to match donors with children’s wish lists. The deadline to return gifts is December 15, and this year’s toy distribution will take place directly at the church.

100% of Donations Stay Local

Sam Clark, of the Front Royal Salvation Army Corps, emphasized how every donation stays within the local community.

“All these donations help with food, clothing, jackets, rent, and utility assistance, and more,” Carr explained. “It all stays right here, the money goes into our local bank account and is used for families in Warren, Page, and Rappahannock counties, as well as Strasburg.”

He also reminded attendees that giving has never been easier. In addition to traditional cash donations, all Red Kettles accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Venmo, ensuring that even those without cash can still give generously. Also, donations are accepted online at https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/va/front-royal/

Join the Tradition — Be a Bell Ringer

The Red Kettle Campaign runs from November 15 through Christmas Eve, Monday through Saturday. Bell ringers will be stationed at various locations, including Walmart, Big Lots, and other area businesses. Volunteers can sign up for a shift or adopt an entire day by visiting RegisterToRing.com.

There’s also a digital option for those who wish to support virtually, allowing individuals or groups to host an online kettle and raise funds remotely.

As Clark wrapped up his remarks, he said: “Thank you for everyone’s support, and let’s hear those bells ring!”