Ringing the Salvation Army bell makes a difference; more help needed

The familiar sound of a ringing bell, followed by the clinking of coins dropped in a red kettle has long been a tradition associated with the holiday season.

Individuals ringing the bells are dedicated volunteers for The Salvation Army, who offer their time to support people in need. Organizers within Tioga County are looking for more bell ringers to finish out their season, which started just before Thanksgiving and concludes on Dec. 24.

Organizer Ron Wheeland explained that bell ringers are most needed during evening hours, although some slots are available during the day as well. All time is appreciated, too, whether it be a couple of hours one day, or even several hours on different days.

Vestal resident Dave Morean has been volunteering at the Red Kettle Drive for seven years, which, in the past, included Black Friday at the Vestal Walmart. Three years ago Morean started ringing at the Tops Market in Owego.

“At Tops, I can stand in the foyer,” said Morean, who volunteers one day a week for at least three hours and sometimes longer.

“I like it, and I enjoy helping,” Morean said, adding, “The Salvation Army is a good organization and the money goes to people who really need it. Every little bit helps.”

Candor resident Tom Zacharias has been ringing the Salvation Army bell for four years. Zacharias, who also volunteers at the Candor and Spencer food pantries, works in extra volunteer time during the holiday season for the Salvation Army, and usually twice a week for two hours each day. He said he enjoys the opportunity to meet new people while ringing the bell inside the foyer at the Owego Price Chopper.  

“A lot of people are very generous,” Zacharias said, adding, “I’ve needed help in the past, so I enjoy giving back.”

The Salvation Army’s mission to reach people in need began in 1865. Today, the Salvation Army assists more than four-and-a-half-million people during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The organization serves in 130 countries around the globe and reaches as many as 25 million people annually. For Tioga County, red kettle money collected in the county stays in the county.

Bell ringers are needed at two Owego locations – Tops Market at 1145 State Rte. 17C, and Price Chopper at 42 W. Main St. Any time donated is appreciated, and can be individuals, church or youth groups. Bell ringers will be able to stand inside the store foyer, and away from any inclement weather.

If you are interested in helping, call Ron Wheeland at (607) 687-2733, or message Dale M. Corbin on Facebook. You can also find the event page, Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive, on Facebook.