Tree of Lights Campaign Pushes Past $830,000- Kettle Match on Monday

PEORIA – The familiar bells that ring for The Salvation Army will soon come to an end for another year. The Salvation Army wants to thank all the stores in the Tri-County area that are hosting the kettles this year. Monday, December 24th will be the last day of kettles, as ringers will be out until 2:30 p.m.

“We are very appreciative of the support of the stores agreeing to help out with the kettles for The Salvation Army,” says Major Evie Diaz, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army. “Central Illinois has always come through at the kettles, both in terms of volunteering and donating to The Salvation Army, and we hope these final few days will allow us to finish the kettle portion of our campaign in a very strong way.”

Kettles will be out today, Saturday and Monday until 2:30p.m. On Monday, Ameren is providing a $1,000 match, hoping to help drive a few more donors to the familiar red kettles. All funds support seasonal and year round programs for those in need. Once the kettles disappear, the Tree of Lights Campaign continues through January, with corporate donations, personal solicitations and direct mail the main avenues utilized by The Salvation Army to reach the goal. “We are so grateful to the many generous individuals, companies and concerned people who will help us reach this very important goal,” said Major Evie Diaz. “The remaining days of kettles and the support we get from people throughout Central Illinois will be vital to our success. We hope that everyone has a safe and blessed Christmas.”

Donations to the Tree of Lights Campaign can be made by mailing to The Salvation Army, PO Box 1468, Peoria, IL 61655, by calling (309) 655-7220 to charge on American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover, online at saheartland.org or by texting givepeoria to 80888 to make a $5 donation.