MARION, Ill. — While many families are enjoying vacations, backyard barbecues, and summer adventures, thousands of families across Southern Illinois continue to worry about putting food on the table, paying rent, and keeping the lights on. Because need doesn’t take a summer vacation, neither does The Salvation Army of Southern Illinois.
The Salvation Army is inviting the community to take part in its Christmas in July campaign by volunteering, donating, or participating in several community events designed to support local families in need.
On Saturday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., volunteers will be ringing bells at the Marion Walmart and Kroger as part of the Christmas in July Bell Ringing Campaign. Every dollar raised will stay in Southern Illinois to help provide food, rent and utility assistance, and other emergency services for individuals and families experiencing hardship.
“These funds help us operate one of the largest food pantries in Southern Illinois while also providing critical rent and utility assistance to families who are struggling,” said Darla Harms, Associate Director of The Salvation Army of Southern Illinois. “The need to serve our neighbors doesn’t disappear when the weather gets warmer. Need does not get a summer vacation.”
Last year, The Salvation Army of Southern Illinois served more than 20,000 individuals, including over 5,000 children, through food assistance, emergency financial assistance, disaster relief, and other critical social service programs. As the demand for assistance continues to grow, community support remains essential.
Individuals interested in volunteering to ring bells are encouraged to sign up at: Salarmy.us/midvolunteer
In addition to bell ringing, three local financial institutions are stepping up to make a difference through the Battle of the Banks Christmas in July Challenge. The Bank of Herrin, SouthernTrust Bank, and Banterra Bank are participating in a friendly competition to see which bank can raise the most money for The Salvation Army.
Customers are encouraged to stop by any participating branch throughout the campaign and donate their spare change, cash, or checks payable to The Salvation Army. Every donation supports local families while helping each bank compete for community bragging rights.
The Salvation Army will also partner with the Marion Walmart for a Stuff the Bus school supply drive on Friday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations collected during the event will be distributed to local students in partnership with Whiteash Freewill Baptist Church.
“As every parent knows, preparing children for a new school year can be expensive,” Harms said. “When a family is already struggling financially, school supplies can become another overwhelming burden. We’re grateful for community partners like Walmart and Whiteash Freewill Baptist Church that see a need and choose to be part of the solution.”
Community members who are unable to volunteer or donate school supplies can still make a meaningful impact by making a financial contribution. Every dollar donated stays local and helps provide food, emergency assistance, disaster relief, and hope to families throughout Southern Illinois.
Donations can be made online at: https://salarmy.us/SouthernIL
Whether you ring a bell, donate a backpack, give a financial gift, or simply share the mission with others, your generosity helps ensure that hope is available to our neighbors all year long. At The Salvation Army, Christmas isn’t just a season—it’s a commitment to serving those who need us most, every day of the year.
About The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 30 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. Founded in London, England, in 1865, The Salvation Army of Southern Illinois provides a wide range of services for those in need in our community including rent and utility assistance, Emergency Disaster Services, Emergency Social Services, food pantry, Angel Tree, Christmas Gifts for Seniors and a summer fan program. For more information, visit http://salvationarmyusa.org/il/marion/tower-square-plaza/.