Members of the Shawnee Mission North High School Key Club and Old Mission Kiwanis Club joined together to ring bells for the Salvation Army on Saturday, December 4 at the HyVee store on Martway Drive in the City of Mission. These local members continued a holiday season tradition that involves numerous Kiwanis family organizations in the metropolitan Kansas City area and in communities all across the county. The traditional red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene, with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors, and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season. Donations provide Christmas dinners, clothing, and toys for families in need. Financial assistance also helps with basic necessities, along with seasonal aid. Families of prisoners often are included. Volunteers distribute gifts to shut-ins in hospitals and nursing homes, and shelters are open for sit-down dinners.
Bell Ringers: SMN Key Club members on the left and Old Mission Kiwanis members on the right.
The Salvation Army endeavors to bring spiritual light and love to those it serves at Christmas so that the real meaning of the season is not forgotten. Many families receive aid over a period of months after the Christmas season as well, people struggling with difficult family, emotional, or employment problems.