Fall is quickly leaving Amarillo. We have already had two winter storms, Halloween is behind us, and the winter holidays are in full swing. One of the icons of the season, the Salvation Army Red Kettles, are about to be out in full force.

Starting on Monday, November 4th, over 80 Toot'n Totum stores across the area will start hosting the counter-top, smaller, Salvation Army Red Kettles. Those 80 locations include Toot'n Totum stores, Mr. Payroll, and Car Care Centers all across the Texas panhandle. You will find them on counter tops at or near checkouts through Christmas Day. The very first kettle of the year will be placed at the Toot’n Totum located at 950 S. Buchanan in Amarillo at 2:30 p.m. Last year, just at the Toot'n Totum counter-top kettle locations alone, $28,000 was raised for the Salvation Army.

Our news partners at ABC 7 KVII spoke with David Atkins of our local Salvation Army:

“The generosity of Panhandle residents continues to amaze me,” said Major David Atkins, the Commanding Officer for The Salvation Army in Amarillo. “The Salvation Army is so grateful for the compassionate and committed support of Toot’n Totum at this very special time of year. Their support allows us to raise essential funds that help deliver Christmas gifts and smiles to more than 1,700 children on Christmas morning, as well as assistance to individuals, seniors and families through the cold winter months.”

The iconic, bigger red kettles that you see at Westgate Mall, Target, Walmart, and more will start showing up over the next couple weeks.

“The Red Kettle campaign is our major fundraiser of the year and provides life-changing assistance all-year-round to those in need,” said Atkins.

During the holiday season, the Salvation Army is always looking for bell ringers to help collect donations. You can sign up online at registertoring.com. Individuals, families, and organizations are all welcome to volunteer for shifts ranging from a couple hours to the entire day. For more information about the Christmas programs of The Salvation Army, you can call 806-373-6631.

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