The local Salvation Army is looking for bell-ringing volunteers to donate their time between now and Dec. 24. As a time-honored tradition, the LaGrange Salvation Army will mirror local Salvation Army organizations across the country, as volunteers set up outside of busy retail stores, ringing bells to raise funds for local families and organizations.

The LaGrange Salvation Army is hoping to post volunteers outside of Hobby Lobby, Kroger and Walmart on New Franklin Road Monday-Friday this holiday season, as well as in West Point at Coach’s Bar and Grill on Friday’s and Saturday’s.

“We would like to do this Monday through Friday, but whatever we can get, we’ll be thankful for,” Salvation Army Red Kettle Coordinator Lisa Farrow said Friday.

Farrow, in her first year serving as the Red Kettle Coordinator for the local Salvation Army, is hoping to create and cultivate a wide network of volunteers that will help generate funds for local causes.

“I’m an avid Salvation Army person, I believe strongly in their mission,” said Farrow. “The mission of the Salvation Army is to do the most good for the local community. This drive helps with people’s utilities and food, and goes back into the community in a number of ways. Someone told me the job (for Red Kettle Coordinator) was opening up, I wanted to help out.”

The LaGrange Salvation Army moved from a corps-operated thrift store to a director-managed, family store and service center this year. Lisa Martin was appointed director of the operation in May, and confirmed that all money raised during the bell-ringing drive will be poured right back into the community.

“Absolutely,” Martin said. “All the money that is raised here stays right here in Troup County.”

While the local Salvation Army does not have a monetary goal tied to the donation drive, Farrow did say she is hoping to see at least 50 volunteers donate their time in between the four locations. 

“If we can get at least 50, that will be great,” Farrow said.

Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to contact Farrow directly at 706.518.2845 or call the LaGrange Salvation Army office at (706) 845.0197.