Eddie Toliver from the Kewanee Salvation Army and Marty Medley from the Kewanee Elks Lodge #724 joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the functions of the Salvation Army and the Elks Lodge within the Kewanee community.

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign is in full swing, and community partners like the Elks Club are stepping up with grant support and volunteers. The Kewanee Elks Lodge presented the Kewanee Salvation Army with a $2,000 check to help bridge the gap from grants this year. The Red Kettle campaign, angel trees, and a variety of grants aim to provide food, gifts, and assistance for those in need. This year’s theme is "Give with Joy," but organizers say grants are down 50% and the need is greater than ever. Innovative giving options, like the “tip tap” contactless kettle and sponsorship packages, are now available. Volunteers for bell ringing are needed—just one hour can help. Applications for Angel Tree support are extended through November 25th.

The registration deadline for the Angel Tree program has been extended to November 25th at the Kewanee Salvation Army. Families with children ages one to thirteen who need holiday assistance can apply online or visit the Salvation Army Store on North Tremont Street. Required documents include a medical card, a valid ID, and proof of current address. The Angel Tree program, in partnership with Patchy’s Red, White, and Blue Christmas Toy Drive, aims to ensure local children in need receive gifts this season. Early angel tags are available for pickup, allowing shoppers to participate before tags appear at Kewanee Wal-Mart.

The Kewanee Elks Lodge is making a significant impact in the community through the Elks National Foundation’s Community Investments Program. As this year’s grants coordinator, Marty Medley, reports, the local lodge has secured $9,000 in grant funding, which is being distributed to vital local initiatives. The Salvation Army’s Adopt-a-Family holiday meal program will receive support for both Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. Additional grants are assisting the Goodfellas Christmas baskets, United Way’s Shoes for Kids, the Kewanee High School pantry, the Kewanee Food Pantry, and Freedom House, to name a few. Elks members aren’t just donating funds—they’re directly involved in delivering meals, fitting shoes, and supporting distribution efforts throughout Kewanee. Want to join the 250 local members in Kewanee? The local Elks Lodge is actively seeking new members and welcomes anyone interested to join their efforts in supporting the community. Most membership dues stay with the local lodge, and a portion supports national initiatives. If you’re interested in signing up, you can call 309-852-2797 and leave a message; the team will respond with information and an application. The Elks Lodge is known for giving back to the community through various charitable efforts and is eager to have more people involved in their projects and events.

Local Salvation Army fundraising is facing a significant challenge this year, with grants down by 50% compared to last year. The annual goal this season is $36,000 to bridge the gap from grants, which are crucial to sustaining vital housing and utility assistance programs for the community. Organizers are urging residents to give with joy, emphasizing that all money raised stays local. Multiple giving options are available, including the new “tip tap”—a contactless card donation method. Unique kettle challenges, like Bears vs. Packers and Police vs. Fire, add a competitive spirit. Volunteers are also needed, with just one-hour shifts making it easier than ever to help.

Shoppers will spot the iconic red kettles at Walmart, Farm King, Walgreens, and Save A Lot, where volunteers collect donations. This year brings added excitement, with local groups facing off in friendly kettle challenges and special themed events. The football rivalry kicked off the season on November 22nd, at the Bears vs. Packers Challenge. Organizers are calling for volunteers to help keep the festivities running smoothly. Interested individuals can sign up by calling 309-853-4192, emailing [email protected], or visiting RegisterToRing.com. The event promises lively spirit, friendly competition, and plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors. Mark your calendars and consider lending a hand to support your local community during this exciting day of football fun. On December 5th, it's police vs. fire; on December 6th, it's Santa vs. the Grinch; on December 13th, it's the Commanders Red Kettle Challenge.