Kettle season’s over; needs are year-round

To the Editor:

While the Salvation Army completed its Red Kettle Collection for 2019 on Christmas Eve, our service to the Island continues year-round. One hundred percent of the funds raised through this annual effort are used to aid Islanders in need.

These services are available year-round, and include but are not limited to assistance with rent, food, fuel, and transportation. Sixty percent of our annual budget is allotted to rental assistance alone.

With the continued generosity of all, we will fulfill our mission, which is to “meet human needs in His name without discrimination” for years to come.

We wish to thank our volunteers, Aline, Angela, Brian, Caitlin, Charlene, Cristina, Maddie, Gary, Jackie, Patrick, Sue, and Teresa who donated almost 300 hours standing by the red kettles.

We thank the merchants who each year grant us permission to place kettles at their businesses: Cronig’s Markets, Edgartown Stop & Shop, the Art Cliff Diner, DeBettencourt’s Gas Station, Rockland Trust, Mardell’s Gift Shop, Reliable Market, Shirley’s Hardware, Vineyard Cash & Carry, Woodland Grill, Vineyard Propane, MV Wine & Spirits, Al’s Package Store, Northline Shell, Your Market, Our Market, Jim’s Package Store, and Lapels Dry Cleaners

If you would like more information on how we are serving and/or how you can help, please call us at 774-563-9436. You may also write to Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1996, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

Please remember that “Needs Know No Season.”

Richard S. Reinhardsen, chairperson
Martha’s Vineyard Service Unit, Salvation Army