Governor LePage To Help Kick-off Salvation Army’s Statewide Kettle Campaign

Augusta, Maine - For 121 years, Salvation Army red kettles around the world have been linked to the Christmas season and to compassion for the needy. To mark the beginning of this year’s kettle campaign in Augusta, Governor Paul R. LePage will speak at the kick-off celebration at the State House.

A Salvation Army Brass Ensemble will also be part of the festivities playing holiday carols. Following the kick-off, familiar red kettles will be seen regularly at stores, malls and other locations throughout Augusta and the State. However, they provide much more than atmosphere and nostalgia during the Christmas season. Last year, funds donated at these kettles enabled The Salvation Army of Augusta to serve 1,678 individuals during the holidays and 694 throughout the year. The Salvation Army assisted 57,992 individuals statewide.

“These services are possible only because of the generosity of this community,” says Captain Matthew Morrison, corps commanding officer. “We are confident that community support will enable us to reach out in meaningful ways to the less fortunate this season, too.”

WHEN: 10:00 a.m. – November 5, 2012

WHERE: Cabinet Room, State House, Augusta

Please note: Governor LePage will attend the funeral service of Maine Game Warden Richard "Rick" Stone on Monday, November 5. Therefore, the Governor will not be able to attend the Salvation Army's Statewide Kettle Campaign Kick-off. The Kettle Kick-off will still take place in the Cabinet Room at the State House.