Kettles for Ukraine starts today in the Midlands

April 4, 2022

Today, Monday, April 4, 2022, The Salvation Army of the Midlands starts a one-week initiative, Kettles for Ukraine. This is the first time The Salvation Army of the Midlands has brought out the red kettles other than the traditional Christmas season. “We wanted to give the Midlands community an opportunity to come together and support the efforts in Ukraine,” said Major Mark Craddock, Area Commander of The Salvation Army of the Midlands. “100% of the kettle donations raised will be transferred to The Salvation Army World Services Office to support families impacted by the crisis in Ukraine.”

The Salvation Army, an international movement, has a long-standing presence in Ukraine and neighboring countries. Because The Salvation Army is already a part of the communities in which we serve, we are on the ground responding immediately.

Where it is safe to serve, The Salvation Army officers have been helping with border crossings and providing accommodations by transforming local Salvation Army centers into safe places for refugees to rest and have a warm meal to eat. To date, The Salvation Army has nine (9) operating Salvation Army Centers in Ukraine as well as centers in neighboring countries of Poland, Moldova, Romania, Czech Republic and Hungary.

“Thank you to the dedicated bell ringers and venues allowing bell ringers to ring this week at their store locations! Through strong community support, we will be able to raise funds that will help to provide food, clothes, blankets, and emotional and spiritual care to those who have been displaced from their homes and are seeking refuge,” said Craddock.

The Salvation Army would like to acknowledge Kettles for Ukraine participates: Lexington Beverage Company and Full Moon Club; Columbia Fireflies Opening Night Game, Lowe’s Home Center at 7441 Two Notch Road and Spring Valley Rotary Club, Alpha Delta Pi Sorority at UofSC; Miss Cocky Fashion Boutique at 1450 Main Street and CIU students; Craft & Draft at 2706 Devine Street/7583 St. Andrews Rd; Green’s Beverages at 400 Assembly Street and Columbia Rotary Club; Process, A Hair Salon at 3143 Forest Drive.

For more information, please contact Lisa Huffman (803) 309-0436 or [email protected].