DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — With Christmas just around the corner, the Salvation Army in Decatur has officially launched their holiday campaign with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Wednesday.

The iconic bell ringers and their red kettles, a staple of the festive season outside many businesses, play a crucial role in the Salvation Army’s efforts. According to Major Susan Summit of Decatur’s Salvation Army, these donations account for over a third of their annual funding during the holidays.