The annual Salvation Army Media Bell Ringing competition happened at Scheel's on Friday to help raise money that goes 100% back into our community.
2 News Nevada was there all morning long saying hello to all of our generous viewers who came out to donate.
2 News Nevada, our viewers and the Salvation Army all love the friendly competition that is the Media Bell Ringing Day.
"Media Day is absolutely one of my favorite days," said Major Randy Hartt, the Northern Nevada Coordinator for the Salvation Army. "I look forward to it. Last year between the three stations you guys raised $9,000 and this year we're hoping to go over $10,000."
The Salvation Army is on target to raise $135,000 by Christmas Eve. and they may even raise more than expected.
"We've been very grateful to this community for supporting the Salvation Army because you're supporting your neighbors in need, and it's awesome," said Major Hartt. "I mean look at this, look at all these people supporting, it's just fantastic."
Allyson Edgington, a Reno Resident who came out to donate says "I think Christmas is for giving, so we give to all different organizations and that's the fun part."
Major Hartt adds "All the energy that goes with it, I tell my bell ringers you're basically joy ambassadors. We see people walk by all the time and people seem heavy sometimes and I know it's been because of the economy, and it's been tough for people. But when they hear that bell it takes them back to different times, maybe simpler times."
All of the funds raised go towards rent assistance, utility assistance, purchasing food for those facing food insecurity, emergency transportation, the young adult youth program, senior activities, their adult rehabilitation program and so much more to help stabilize the community.
"And this is the thing that really makes me think, between 26% and 28% increase in people who've never used our services ever before," said Major Hartt.
All of the money raised in the red kettles stays in our community.
"They are helping somebody, and they don't even know who it is," said Major Hartt. "You could be going to school or working with people who are trying to figure out how to make it or whether or not the paycheck to paycheck thing, so we never know what's happening with our neighbors around us, so you are able to help. Doing this helps."
Allyson Edgington tells us "I think competitions are great and if you can raise more money I think it's a wonderful idea."
