Wanted: Salvation Army bell ringers

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, November 28, 2017

EVERETT — The Salvation Army is looking for bell ringers for the holiday season.

Shifts are available at 35 stores in Everett, Lake Stevens, Monroe and Snohomish. Some positions are paid, but many are filled by volunteers, said Andrea Reedy.

She and husband, Lt. Jeremy Reedy, are pastors who lead the Everett Salvation Army. They provide an array of programs for the homeless and others in need, including a food bank and a cold weather shelter. They also run a growing church that primarily serves families.

The bell ringers are their biggest annual fundraiser.

With volunteer shifts, “all of the money that comes into the kettle stays here in Everett, and it goes straight to direct assistance,” Andrea Reedy said.

This year, the ringers started Friday and will continue through Dec. 23. They are out from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Participating stores include Fred Meyer, QFC, Albertsons, Walmart and JC Penney.

Proceeds support the Salvation Army’s mission of meeting people’s food, housing and spiritual needs. This time of year is the church’s busiest. For example, the Everett location recently provided more than 400 families with Thanksgiving meals.

“Everybody’s contributions do matter, and it all adds up,” Jeremy Reedy said.

Solo ringers must be adults, but groups can include young people if they provide supervision. Families also are welcome, and some bring their instruments to play.

The shifts can be part time or full time, and volunteers have scheduling flexibility. Aprons and bells are provided.

To get involved, stop by during office hours at 2525 Rucker Ave., or call 425-259-8129 ext. 224. Donations also are accepted.

Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @rikkiking.