DETROIT (WWJ) - A familiar sight and sound is returning to storefronts across metro Detroit starting Friday: The Salvation Army red kettles and bell ringers.
What's billed as the world’s tallest red kettle was lowered into place Friday morning in Campus Martius Park, a symbol of the organization's annual holiday fundraising drive.
The giant red kettle, which was constructed by Wayne State University students, is approximately 56-feet tall, 24-feet wide and contains 25,000 red LEDs. It signifies the unofficial start to the 2019 Red Kettle Campaign and the first day of red kettles. Volunteer bell ringers will be out and about across metro Detroit collecting funds at the nonprofit's iconic red kettles.
This year, the Salvation Army is introducing a new way to donate: Kettle Pay. Those who don’t carry cash can still donate at the red kettle via Apple or Google Pay by simply tapping their mobile device to the special sign.
This year's fundraising goal is set at $8 million, which will fund The Salvation Army’s year-round efforts to provide more than just feeding and sheltering through its various community programs.
The giant red kettle will remain unlit until the sparkling lights are put on full display during The Salvation Army’s 2019 Red Kettle Campaign Kick-Off on Friday, Nov. 22 at Campus Martius Park in conjunction with the city of Detroit’s annual tree lighting ceremony.