Each year, as the holiday season approaches, bells can be heard ringing outside local businesses. Become a bell-ringer this year and help the Salvation Army fulfill their annual fundraising goal.

Beginning Thursday, Nov. 18 through Dec. 24, the Bradford Salvation Army will be holding their Annual Red Kettle Campaign, which includes their iconic red kettles and silver bells.

The Red Kettle Campaign is the largest annual fundraiser for the Salvation Army, accounting for almost 50 percent of their annual budget, according to Major David Means Jr.

To collect these much needed resources Means and Capt. Kristen Means are asking families, groups, churches and individuals who can volunteer to stand at one of their red kettle locations, which are at Walmart, Tops, Save A Lot and Big Lots.

There are a variety of times and dates available for interested volunteers — Standing hours run between 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

“These annual funds help specifically with our Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets, as well as with our other social ministries throughout the year, which include our clothing giveaway, emergency lodging and emergency food pantry,” said Means.

Besides supporting the Bradford Salvation Army’s annual budget the Red Kettle Campaign also supports their utility assistance program, which is mostly funded through a grant from the United Way. The campaign also provides program space for both the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, as well as other youth outreach programs.

Besides seeking volunteers, there will also be opportunities for businesses to sponsor kettle locations. Participating businesses would receive a specialized sign of recognition.

Any family, person or business who would like to volunteer or sponsor a kettle location can contact Major Means Jr. at the Salvation Army office at 111 Jackson Ave., by email David.MeansJr@use.salvationarmy.org, by phone (814) 368-7012 or through their Facebook page.