A local Salvation Army bell ringer braves the elements to help support the agency's programming efforts. (Journal file photo)

MARQUETTE — The Salvation Army of Marquette County is looking for a few good, well, bell ringers, to help support the myriad programs the agency operates locally.

According to Cari Detmers, Salvation Army director of development, the agency positions the familiar bell ringers and red kettles at a number of different locations in Marquette County. They include Jubilee Foods in Ishpeming Township, the Super One Foods stores in the city of Negaunee and Marquette Township, at Walmart in Marquette Township, at Walgreens in the city of Marquette, at Marketplace Foods in Marquette and at Lofaro’s Fresh Market in Harvey.

Additionally, there are special, temporary locations including the Westwood Mall in Marquette Township.

Thanksgiving Week “is huge for us,” Detmers said of the bell ringing. “Overall, the need is huge this year.”

The programs supported by the Red Kettle effort include, but are not limited to, serving hot meals to locals in need; the Salvation Army mobile kitchen; the annual coat drive; and the weekend food program for students.

“We do as much as we can,” she said.

Detmers said the Salvation Army and its bell ringers have been active in the local area for the past 130 years. Every year, local residents step up and fill shifts, which typically run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This year, the need is particularly pressing.

“We’re asking for help on this,” she said. “So much good is done because of it.”

Interested in getting involved? Signup is easy and can be accomplished by visiting www.registertoring.com.

Bud Sargent can be reached at 906-228-2500, extension 544. His email address is bsargent@miningjournal.net.