The Salvation Army helped make Thanksgiving a little brighter for dozens of needy West Hawaii families on Saturday.
The nonprofit distributing 250 food boxes filled with everything needed to make a traditional feast including potatoes, corn, cranberry sauce, rice, yams, mini marshmallows, and stuffing. In addition, recipients were given the choice of a turkey or ham.
“We were going to include pumpkin pie or another dessert but thought maybe we have some diabetics, so decided to give each recipient a $10 gift certificate to KTA so they could choose for themselves,” said Lt. Raghel Santiago.
The organization partnered with Kiwanis and the Rotary Club of Kona to supplement donations from last year’s kettle drive in order to fund the food.
Some 500 cooked meals will also be delivered to seniors and shut-ins on Thanksgiving Day, which is Thursday.
Santiago said because of COVID, the nonprofit is only able to man three red kettle locations in West Hawaii. Red kettles are stationed at KTA Super Stores in Kailua-Kona and Keauhou, as well as the Kona Walmart.
“This is the biggest fundraising we do,” said Santiago. “We are a little concerned.”
However, Joe Schneckenburger, owner of the Kona Tiki Hotel said he would match up to $33,000 in donations received by Dec. 3 to help the charitable organization.
“This is urgent,” said Santiago. “I don’t want to miss this opportunity.”
In addition to donating at the red kettle locations, individuals or businesses can donate online at kona.salvationarmy.org or by mailing a check with “kettle match 2021” in the memo line to: Salvation Army 75-223 Kalani St. Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
All money donated stays in Kona, helping Kona neighbors.
The Salvation Army’s red kettle fundraiser is also taking place in East Hawaii, with money staying on that windward side of the island. In addition to kettles being set up at KTA Super Stores locations, The Salvation Army will be at Macy’s in Hilo on Friday.
“Your donations to our red kettles stay in East Hawaii to support social service programs like food distribution and feeding, at-risk youth services and housing, our Sally store, and more,” said Capt. Sam Le Mar. “So, when you see our red kettles this season, please give generously, and help keep hope marching on for those in need.”
