Message from the Divisional Commander
Only a Few More Days Left of 2019!
Dear Friend,
Christmas is just a couple of days away and the familiar ringing of silver bells at The Salvation Army red kettles will be coming to an end tomorrow. Today, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful Salvation Army volunteers who rang these bells through the holiday season to help The Salvation Army Do the Most Good.
In all my years as a Salvation Army officer, some of the most unique stories I’ve heard were from those who ring the bells for us at the red kettle. It’s encouraging to know that no matter how or why any person does it, the goal is to support The Salvation Army to help those around us who are suffering and in need of our help. To me, that is community in Alaska. Alaska is a well-known state for helping our neighbors in need from a flat tire on the side of a road to a jump in the parking lot when the below freezing temperatures are a little too much for vehicles.
This Christmas, thousands of families across Alaska will benefit from Christmas disbursement programs that are made possible by the generosity of community members like you. Monetary donations received year-round help The Salvation Army in Alaska run critical programs. From delivering meals to seniors, providing treatment for those fighting addiction to making a safe place available for underprivileged kids after school, The Salvation Army is there.
While December often marks the end of the tax year for many trying to get in those last-minute tax-deductible gifts, it is also the Season of Giving where the Christmas spirit encourages us all to think more about the needs of others. While you are making your donations this Christmas season, I would ask you to consider donating to The Salvation Army in your community. As a 501(c)3 non-profit, our mission is to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. The tens of thousands of Alaskans who we serve each year thank you for your giving heart.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)
May God richly bless you and yours this holiday season.
In HIS Service,
John Brackenbury, Major
Divisional Commander
The Salvation Army - Alaska Division