The Quad City Area Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle Campaign kicked off last Friday and already, it's received its first gold coin. The lucky location was Schnuck's Market in Bettendorf, Iowa and it marks the first time on record a gold coin was found on the first day of the kettle drive.
Salvation Army spokesperson, Holly Nomura says the coin, a quarter ounce American Gold Eagle, will be used for The Salvation Army's work in the Quad Cities.
Nomura says the donation "helps to make possible The Salvation Army's life-transforming services, such as food and shelter to people in the Quad Cities who have nowhere else to turn during their time of hardship."
The gold coin donation has become a tradition in the Quad Cities and other locations across the country. According to the Salvation Army, some people believe the Quad Cities started the tradition. According to Wikipedia though, it has it's roots just a few hours drive away, in Crystal Lake, Ill.
Wherever the tradition started, it has continued for another year in the QCA.
The single coin donation has a face value of $10, but according to dealers, the actual value of the coin is well over $400. It's a good start, but the Salvation Army still has a long way to go.
The Red Kettle campaign runs from November 9, 2012 through December 24, 2012 and volunteer bell ringers are desperately needed. Anyone interested is asked to go to www.ringbells.org for easy sign up.
