The Salvation Army of Sheboygan’s 2021 Christmas Campaign got some help from area banks and credit unions last week.
Development Director Carrye Jo Coney said that this year’s “Battle of the Banks & Credit Unions” was won by HSA Bank, who’s staff spent seven hours ringing, singing and spreading Christmas Cheer at the Sheboygan Southside Walmart and raised $1,310. Kohler Credit Union came in a close second at $1,278. Other participants included Oostburg State Bank raising $ 1,191, United One Credit Union with $ 1,071, Johnson Financial Group at $483, National Exchange Bank with $156 raised, and Marine Credit Union raising $134. The entire effort was able to contribute a record-breaking $5,623 to support the social service programs offered to the community by the Salvation Army in Sheboygan.
The overall 2021 campaign goal is over $700,000, with hopes to raise $135,000 through the bell-ringing efforts that continue through Christmas Eve. Coney said that that about $26,000 had been raised at the kettles through this past Friday, and a major push is expected during the next two weeks.
While bitter weather won’t help the turnout, Coney says that neither does the recent mild stretch. She says it’s best when there’s some snow that makes things look and feel more Christmas-like. Volunteer ringers are always needed and can sign up for as little as a two-hour shift at RegisterToRing.com, or by calling the Salvation Army at 920-694-1271.