As the holiday season nears, the local chapter of the Salvation Army is set to make appearances at several locations to raise funds for the needy.

According to Linda Guill, chair of the local Charlotte County/Chase City Salvation Army, the Salvation Army bell ringers will visit Food Lion and the ABC store in Keysville, Sav-U-Time on Highway 360 and Dollar General in Charlotte Court House. Donation collections will begin on Friday, Nov. 27.

“I’ve been a volunteer for 10 years,” Guill said.

She said the money collected by the bell ringers stays within the county in which the money is received.

The money is primarily used to provide heat and utilities to the needy, with the elderly and children being a primary concern.

“It is a worthy cause,” said volunteer Nancy Parker. “In a day where everything is questionable, the Salvation Army is unquestioned in its mission.”

According to information from Henry Gariepy, William Booth founded the Salvation Army. “All of Booth’s ministry and social services were based on his love for God, his belief in salvation and God’s work and his full commitment to Jesus Christ,” Gariepy said.

Gariepy wrote that the sight of a red kettle and Salvation Army volunteer is a typical Christmas tradition in many areas.

“There are many among the hungry, the homeless, the lonely and the disadvantaged for whom Christmas would be just another day if it were not for the practical remembrances of the Salvation Army,” Gariepy wrote.

Guill said that the Salvation Army also works hand-in-hand with Social Services.

Those interested in volunteering should call (434) 736-9817 for more information.