Sound of the holidays: $ in red kettle

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich (WOOD) - A familiar sound of the holidays continues earlier than ever this Christmas season.

Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from the Salvation Army every year and the last couple years have been tough for many people.

This year, the Salavation Army is kicking off its Red Kettle campaign a week earlier than normal in an attempt to meet the increased needs of people in West Michigan.

The familiar sound of the bell ringing kicks off at 10 a.m. Friday at the Family Fare Supermarket on Kalamazoo Avenue SE in Grand Rapids.

In an addition to the long-standing relationship Family Fare, the Salvation Army is also partnering again with D&W Fresh Markets.

What becomes of the coins dropped in the red kettles? The Salvation Army uses that money to feed the hungry, provide relief for disaster victims, assistance for people who are disabled, senior citizens, and those who are ill and provide clothing and shelter to the homeless.

The Salvation Army claims about 83 cents on every dollar donated goes to help the causes listed above.

Things to keep in mind when you hear the bells earlier than ever this holiday season.

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