Family Resources Community Action (FRCA) is preparing their annual Red Kettle Campaign, sending volunteers to local markets to take donations for basic aid for low-income families — they just need the volunteers.
This year, Red Kettle volunteers will be sent to Wal-Mart, Stop & Shop and Brigido’s Market in North Smithfield between Nov. 30 and Dec. 24 to take donations aiding rent and utility assistance through the Salvation Army.
Last year, the campaign raised raised $20,300 with the help of 87 volunteers who put in more than 1,000 hours staffing kettles at local stores. That was about $200 more than in 2011, a boost Tracey Abrams, development & communications director at FRCA attributed to having more volunteers.
Ninety percent of the funds from the campaign go directly to provide basic needs assistance such as rent, utility/heating assistance and prescription assistance for low income Woonsocket and North Smithfield individuals and families, which the FRCA works year-round to help at their family support center.
Volunteer shifts at the stores are 2 hours long. Individuals, families, school groups and others are encouraged to staff kettles and ring the bell. To volunteer, contact Wendy Pires at Family Resources Community Action at 401-235-6096 or wpires@famresri.org or visit famresri.org.
For more information about FRCA’s family support and other programs, call 401-766-0900 or visit www.famresri.org
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