Salvation Army Launches Holiday Campaigns in Bryan, Texas, as Angel Tree Requests Rise

The sound of ringing bells returned to the Brazos Valley this week as The Salvation Army launched its annual Red Kettle campaign and Angel Tree program, marking the start of the holiday season.

Salvation Army leaders say the local Angel Tree program has seen a roughly 33% increase in children needing sponsorship compared with last year. “This year, we actually have 266 more angels than what we did last year,” said Caroline Brummer, Corps Assistant for The Salvation Army of Bryan-College Station.

Major David Swyers said the heart of the season lies in neighbors stepping up for one another. “When you can stop and care about someone else at that moment more than yourself, that’s where world joy is,” Swyers said.

Brummer said that generosity is already visible in this year’s campaign. A local family that once relied on the Angel Tree program as children returned this season to sponsor children of their own. Swyers said he has heard similar accounts many times over the years. “When I was a kid, I had Christmas because of you. And now I don’t need that. I take my daughter, I take my son, and we pick off an angel so I can return the favor,” Swyers recounted of past donors. The family’s return shows the value of sharing what one has (Hebrews 13:16).

Volunteers are already stationed at local storefronts, including Hobby Lobby, with the signature Red Kettles. The organization plans to expand to locations across Bryan and College Station.

Officials stated that every dollar dropped into the kettles stays in the local community to fund programs and assistance throughout the coming year.

Bell ringers also described the work. K’Dome Kelley said standing at the kettle is about more than collecting donations. “So far, it’s about the people here. They’re just being kind and grateful, and also just having fun with them, just cracking jokes and just having a fun time ringing the bell as well,” Kelley said. Fellow bell ringer Paul Odom said, “I love doing it. I know that all the money we raise stays here and helps others.”

Community members who want to take part can stop by a Red Kettle to donate and greet volunteers, pick up a tag from a local Angel Tree, or sponsor a child and donate online at www.salvationarmybcs.org.

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