Salvation Army of Lorain County Kicks Off Red Kettle Campaign at Elyria Luncheon

The Salvation Army of Lorain County recognized local volunteers and community workers on Nov. 4 at its annual Christmas Luncheon at Lorain County Community College in Elyria. The event also kicked off the organization’s Red Kettle Campaign. Community members, business representatives and local leaders attended to celebrate the group’s work in the county during the holiday season.

Representatives reported on the organization’s impact over the past year. From July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, the Salvation Army distributed $218,387 in rental assistance. In the same period, 585 households received a combined $302,643 in utility assistance. The source says this aid was provided through the United Way’s UCAN program, which combines services from United Way, the Salvation Army and seven other social service providers to help low-income families.

Jody Keller, the Salvation Army’s service extension director, said the organization’s food assistance and Christmas programs distributed 26,733 food boxes and gave toys to 2,308 children for Christmas last year. “These numbers represent so much more than services provided,” Keller said. “They represent hope restored, families supported, hunger relieved and smiles brought to children’s faces.”

Speakers encouraged individuals and organizations to support the Red Kettle Campaign through financial contributions and volunteer work. Volunteer opportunities include ringing bells at red kettle locations, distributing food boxes and toys, assisting with the food pantry, and preparing and serving hot meals. Keller said, “Behind every meal served, every food box distributed and every Christmas gift given out is a person, a family or a child whose life has been touched by someone’s generosity.” Volunteers who prepare and serve meals share what they have with neighbors in need (Hebrews 13:16).

Elyria Municipal Court Judge Gary Bennett was the keynote speaker and described the established relationship between the court and the Salvation Army. The source explains that an Elyria Municipal Court community service program lets convicted individuals meet community service requirements by purchasing and donating needed supplies to the Salvation Army instead of performing traditional physical labor. Donated items include diapers, food and personal hygiene products for families across the community.

Several individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions. Darlene “Sue” Wells and Diane Yuhasz received Volunteer Champion Awards. Wells has volunteered with the food pantry program since 2011, and Yuhasz has spent the past five years helping prepare and serve hot meals. Kaplan’s Furniture and Mattress and M.J. Griffith Paving each received Community Champion Awards for their support of the Salvation Army. Businesses, organizations and individuals who supported this past year’s campaign were also recognized as Red Kettle sponsors.

Nancy Scharfeld, a member of the Lorain County Advisory Board, closed the luncheon with a speech to attendees.

Source: Read the original report