Salvation Army of the Lowcountry kicks off Christmas season with $170,000 fundraising goal

The Salvation Army of the Lowcountry officially kicked off the 2026 Christmas season Friday, Nov. 13, with the launch of its annual Red Kettle Campaign and the grand opening of its Angel Tree Warehouse in Port Royal.

The celebration took place at 1347 Ribaut Road and included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, ceremonial bell ringing and remarks from guest speaker Scott Cromwell, author of a children’s book about ringing the bell for The Salvation Army. The event also marked the opening of the Angel Tree Warehouse, made possible through a partnership with WHHI-TV.

The Red Kettle Campaign has an ambitious fundraising goal of $170,000 as the organization works to meet growing needs for Christmas assistance in Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton and Colleton counties. This year’s Angel Tree program includes 810 angels representing 300 families, helping bring the excitement and joy of Christmas to children whose families may be facing financial challenges.

“Christmas time, to me, is one of my favorite times of the year. It’s filled with joy, family, fun and presents,” said Kevin Phillips, Mayor of Port Royal. “But sometimes, in all the hustle and bustle that Christmas brings, it’s easy to forget that for some people, it’s not all that joyful. Sometimes it’s a time of struggle, a time of need, a time of grief.”

The Red Kettle Campaign, one of The Salvation Army’s best-known holiday traditions, raises money through donations collected at red kettles throughout the Christmas season. Contributions support the organization’s assistance programs and help provide resources to local individuals and families in need. To donate virtually to the Red Kettle Campaign, click here.