Cadiz Salvation Army readies booths as Red Kettle season begins

Preparations are underway for the Christmas and New Year holidays, and the Cadiz Salvation Army began its seasonal work Nov. 24 by assembling its Red Kettle booths at two local locations.

A two-man crew, Bill McGowan and Chuck Yoho, set up the booths at Sander’s Market and Ormes Hardware. Yoho is in his sixth year assembling the booths, and McGowan is in his fourth. Both men said they are happy to donate their time.

“Both of us enjoy doing this,” McGowan said. “It takes a little time depending on the repairs needed. However, it’s something that needs to be done. We’ll probably be here next year, and we encourage everyone to contribute to the Salvation Army’s drives.”

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign, now in its 133rd year, is a long-standing holiday tradition. The first kettle appeared in San Francisco in 1891, when Captain Joseph McFee sought a way to fund holiday meals for families in need. The idea quickly spread nationwide, and the ringing bell—first used by a volunteer in New York City around 1900—became part of the campaign’s enduring identity.

Funds collected at the Cadiz kettles stay within the local community. The Salvation Army estimates that two hours of volunteer bell ringing typically brings in about $60 in donations.

Cadiz Salvation Army President Tom Kenny expressed his gratitude to the volunteers preparing for the season.

“I want to personally thank Bill and Chuck for all they have done in assembling our booths for the Christmas holiday,” Kenny said. “Our mission is simple — do what we can for our people. This Christmas season let us all do our part in helping others in any way we can. I want to wish the very best for all of you this season, and be safe.”