Red Kettles retreat but the need is greater than ever

With heightened restrictions imposed statewide by New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, The Salvation Army has made the decision to remove all its iconic Red Kettles from storefronts across the state until further notice.

The funds raised through the Red Kettles were already at risk this year due to COVID-19 during a time when requests for services are at an all-time high.

“This was not an easy decision, but the health and safety of our clients, officers, staff, volunteers and all New Mexicans is of the highest priority,” said Lt. Colonel Kelly Pontsler, commander of The Salvation Army Southwest Division.

“The Salvation Army was already estimating a nearly 50 percent decrease in funds raised through Red Kettles due to economic impacts from COVID-19,” Pontsler said. “This at a time when the Army anticipates serving up to 155 percent more people nationwide this Christmas because of the pandemic, so we need help now more than ever to ‘Rescue Christmas’ for our New Mexico neighbors in need.”

Donations to The Salvation Army New Mexico can be made safely and securely online at RedKettleNewMexico.org. You can also give by texting RedKettles to 51555. Donations to the Red Kettles traditionally comprise 22 percent of gifts to The Salvation Army in New Mexico for the entire year, helping assist nearly 125,000 New Mexicans annually.