The sounds of Christmas bells will be in the air the weekends of December 5-6 and 12-13 when Salvation Army bell ringers set up at locations around town. This year the red kettles will be at Bagel Delight, Bottle Stop, Dunkin’, Newtown Community Center, Newtown General Store, Stop & Shop, Walgreens, and Yankee Wine & Liquor.

The local unit of the Salvation Army, in partnership with Newtown Social Services Department, addresses emergency needs of Newtown residents. Of the money raised from Newtown Salvation Army Red Kettle collections, 90% stays in Newtown to help pay for food, rent, and utility costs.

Last year the drive was cut short by bad weather, so this year the group hopes to increase donations beyond the $10,000 raised in 2023. All are invited to ring bells and/or donate generously.

Donations at the kettles can be done by cash or check (payable to Salvation Army Newtown).

For those who would like to mail a donation check, they can be sent to Newtown Salvation Army c/o Newtown Social Services, 28 Trades Lane, Newtown CT 06470.

One-hour shifts are available on Fridays and Saturdays, December 5-13. Organizers welcome individuals, couples, families and groups. They encourage volunteers to dress up, bring friends and/or pet critters, and prepare to have a wonderful time helping everyone feel good about helping others.

Among those already involved in this year’s drive are Newtown Savings Bank, Friends of Newtown Seniors, Newtown Lions Club, Newtown Congregational Church, The Newtown Garden Club, Town & Country Garden Club of Newtown, and scores of volunteers who ring the Red Kettle Bells.

For those interested in ringing next month, visit bit.ly/RedKettleNewtownCT.

For additional information contact Salvation Army Newtown President Glenn Nanavaty at grnanavaty7746@yahoo.com.