ÀÏ˾»úÖ±²¥

WHEELING – The local Salvation Army is ready to start ringing in the holidays, but they still need a few more bell ringers.

The Salvation Army in Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel, and Tyler counties will hold its annual Kettle Kickoff celebration to launch the 2024 Christmas season this week in both Ohio and Marshall counties, and they are asking for a few organizations to step up to ring on that day and the first week of the season.

The Ohio County kick-off will take place outside Cabela’s at The Highlands at 10 a.m. Saturday. In Marshall County, the annual fundraising event starts off at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Walmart in Moundsville.

“We continue to work toward our goal of 200 bell ringers this year. But many of our volunteers schedule for later in the season, particularly after Thanksgiving, which means we have huge gaps in our schedule early on,” said Lt. John Lawrence, commander of the local Salvation Army. “In particular, we are in need of some help on our Kettle Kickoff Saturday and for the week that follows.”

Nathan Blake, community relations director for the local Salvation Army, reported the organization is presently at 115 volunteer bell ringers – about 85 short of their goal of 200 volunteers.

“We have more (volunteers) than last year, but we are still working towards it,” Blake added.

“We are light for the first week from Nov. 16-22. That’s when we’re really trying to get some people.”

The Salvation Army rings bells at 16 locations in Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel and Tyler counties from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Monday through Saturday during the holiday season.

Individuals and organizations wishing to participate should contact The Salvation Army offices in Wheeling at 304-233-4400 to schedule a time and location that works for them.

.