Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox, Boston EMS Chief James Hooley, and Boston Fire Commissioner Paul F. Burke took turns Thursday as celebrity bellringers at The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettle outside of Roche Bros. in West Roxbury, supporting the organization’s programs for those in need.

With donations down this holiday season, the celebrity bellringers helped draw attention to the importance of the Red Kettle campaign. The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division projects that Red Kettle donations in the state are down by approximately 24% compared to this time last year due to a shorter holiday season, fewer people carrying cash, and economic pressures affecting charitable giving.

For almost three decades, the Parkway Kettle Campaign has been led by longtime volunteer Jim Hennigan and raised almost $1 million for The Salvation Army’s Boston Kroc Center.

As the cost of living continues to rise, many Massachusetts residents face the growing threat of poverty and the inability to provide for themselves and their families during the holidays. The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division works every day to be a critical resource and part of the safety net by providing Christmas gifts and food, offering support for bills, and providing shelter to those without a home. On average, volunteer bell ringers raise enough money to provide nearly 250 meals to children and families in their respective towns.

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“We’re incredibly grateful to Commissioner Cox, Chief Hooley, and Commissioner Burke for lending their time and visibility to this important cause,” said Captain Shakai Drigo of The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center. "Their presence at the kettle reminds our community that giving back during the holidays is a shared responsibility, and every contribution helps us serve our neighbors in need.”

Operating locally for more than 135 years, The Salvation Army has relied upon its iconic Red Kettle campaign since the 1890s to provide support and services to those in need. The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division is setting out to raise more than $2.3 million through this year’s Red Kettle Campaign to meet increasing requests for assistance.

With this being a shorter holiday season, The Salvation Army is making an urgent plea for the community to volunteer or donate before Christmas Eve. To volunteer at a Red Kettle or donate online, visit www.salvationarmyma.org/redkettle to learn more.