NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — The holidays are quickly approaching and for some that can bring anxiety, especially at a time when millions are out of work. Many nonprofits are concerned about how they're going to support more people in need this year.
By this time next month, the Salvation Army's red kettles will be out front of most department and grocery stores. But because of COVID-19, Major Ethan Frizzell says the organization is doing things in a less traditional way.
Frizzle people don't have to wait to see the red kettle to donate. Donations can be made now by taking a kettle home and starting a fundraiser, ringing the bell over zoom or donating $25 dollars each month to Love's Army.
To sign up for Angel Tree or the Red Kettle visit Salvation Army Nashville.
Frizzle says it doesn't matter what option people pick, he just hopes people donate.
"To help us rescue Christmas for so many of our neighbors who have gone through their savings and have depleted their resources and are now coming into a state of fear. Together we can rescue Christmas and make sure that the hope of Christmas is known throughout the community," Frizzle said.
The nonprofit has already had a busy year with tornado and pandemic relief. The Salvation Army is working to keep people who have lost their job due to COVID-19 in their homes and providing educational resources for virtual learning students.
Frizzle says as we get closer to Christmas he wants to remind people it's never too early to help.
"We created multiple ways for people to give from their home and through their social network for what was usually that great sound of ringing a bell," he said.
One of the biggest charity fundraisers for the organization, Gatherings of the Angels will now be a virtual event.
"We count on thousands of volunteers for angel tree and this year we know we're going to have to extend our hours in the warehouse so we can have smaller groups do the work," said Frizzle. "That's thousands of gifts that go to thousands of homes so that kids can wake up with that miracle moment of Christmas."
