Volunteers Needed to Ring the Bell

Christmas Tree

The Lamar Ministerial Alliance and Salvation Army is seeking volunteers to ring the bells during the holiday season donation drive.

Volunteers will spend two hours on weekends up to December 24 in front of various shopping areas in Lamar.  Their bell ringing will be the focal point for persons to offer cash contributions for the needy during the holidays.  Last year’s contributions came close to $20,000 and efforts are underway to match or better that amount this year.

Those who want to help out can contact John Maxwell from the Lamar Lions Club at 688-7809 to sign up for a shift at one of several stores including Little Caesar, the Lamar Truck Plaza, Big R, Tractor Supply, Safeway, Thriftway and Walmart on Friday, Saturday and Sundays leading up to Christmas.  The hours will usually run from 8am to 6pm.  Closer to Christmas, ringers will be out on Thursdays.  Volunteers are always advised to dress warmly, even for a two hour shift.

The majority of donations help those in need pay for some medical expenses such as prescriptions or to pay their utility bills.  Applications for assistance can be made through the First Baptist or Lamar Christian Church.  Once the application has been approved, a check will be issued for the recipient.

By Russ Baldwin