Savannah River Mission Completion continued its tradition of supporting the Salvation Army for local needs in Aiken, Allendale, Barnwell, and Aiken counties, as senior executives volunteered to ring the bell for the Red Kettle Campaign.

SRMC donated $5,000 to the Salvation Army as its executive management team volunteered to ring the bell at Walmart on Whiskey Road in Aiken, S.C. Each year through its Philanthropic Giving Program, SRMC donates its time, talent, and treasure to support the nonprofit organization that provides a wide range of services to people in need every year, such as the Salvation Army. In 2023, the Salvation Army of Aiken served nearly 6,500 people and provided meals, food boxes and groceries, overnight shelter, and clothing items.

SRMC President and Program Manager Dave Olson said he always looks forward to greeting people as he leads his team's bell ringing each year in support of the Salvation Army.

"This is one of my favorite things to do every year," Olson said. "It is a privilege to be a part of such a successful program that has an extensive reach providing a much-needed service to our neighbors, ensuring that critical needs are met not only during the holidays, but year-round as well."

The iconic Salvation Army red kettle campaign began in 1891 by Captain Joseph McFee, a Salvation Army officer who was looking for a way to cover the cost of the community Christmas meal. The tradition continues still today. Sharing your donation helps the Salvation Army care for homeless and needy families, but also helps serve over 27 million people through a myriad of other services all year long.