The Oxford Salvation Army Service Center officially launched its annual Red Kettle Campaign on Tuesday with a kickoff event on the steps of the store on West Oxford Loop.

Running from Nov. 29 to Dec. 23, volunteers will ring bells at Red Kettles stationed at Walmart, Kroger, and CashSaver in Oxford, as well as Walgreens in Batesville.

“Every penny dropped in these kettles stays within our service area—Lafayette, Yalobusha, Marshall, and Panola Counties—and is used to assist those in need,” said store manager Bobette Wolensensky.

The Salvation Army offers a range of resources for local residents, including assistance with utility bills and medications. This year, the organization will also provide senior citizens with gift cards to CashSaver for food.

Donors who don’t often carry cash to drop in the kettle can now contribute through “virtual kettles” by scanning a QR code with their phones, making it easier than ever to give.

Last year’s campaign raised enough funds to help 400 individuals, and organizers hope to surpass that number this year. Community members are encouraged to participate by donating or volunteering, with support from various local organizations and businesses.

Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill highlighted the community’s generosity during the kickoff.

“We are a community that steps up to care for one another, to rebuild, and to help those in need,” she said. Tannehill also encouraged volunteers to experience the campaign firsthand.

“You get a front-row seat to witness the kindness of our community—seeing people who may struggle to give $5 but still want to help others.”

Lafayette County Supervisor and Board President Brent Larson joined the event, announcing that county employees will join city employees on Dec. 20 to ring the bell.

“We will be showing a united front in support of this important cause,” Larson said. “Together, we can make a real difference for families who rely on the Salvation Army’s assistance during challenging times.”

Marlee Carpenter, executive director of Stronger Together Oxford, emphasized the need for volunteers to fill the 400 available time slots.

“We need many hands to ring those bells and make this campaign a success,” Carpenter said.

To sign up as a volunteer or learn more, visit www.strongertogetheroxford.com.