Since 1894, The Salvation Army, Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, has focused its efforts on providing support, a sense of community and, most importantly, hope to those in need. For the past 130 years, their hallmark programs, such as the Red Kettle campaign and Angel Tree Giving, have played a pivotal role in ensuring that the holiday spirit reaches everyone, especially those facing financial or personal hardships.
The Red Kettle campaign, a familiar sight during the holiday season, involves volunteers — from keiki to kūpuna — stationed outside stores, ringing bells and collecting donations. This tradition, dating back over a century, raises critical funds that support The Salvation Army’s numerous programs — emergency assistance, at-risk youth, food insecurity, substance use disorders, houselessness and more.
Senior volunteers bring their time and energy, and a deep commitment to serving the community. Many have been involved for years, finding purpose and connection through their work. The Salvation Army welcomes individuals of all ages to join this effort, offering an opportunity to give back during the holidays while impacting families year-round.
“I love The Salvation Army at Christmastime because it gives me a joy to help people,” said Matthew Kailihou, a Red Kettle veteran who has been ringing for nearly five decades. “I would encourage all of you volunteers to come out so we can help people who need it at this time.”
The Angel Tree Giving program is another cornerstone of The Salvation Army’s holiday initiatives. This program brings joy to children and families who may not receive gifts during the holiday season for various reasons. Community members select tags from Angel Trees, each representing a specific child or family, and purchase items to fulfill their wish lists. The impact of this program goes beyond material gifts; it shows families that they are not alone — even during the most challenging times. Volunteers play a crucial role in organizing and distributing these gifts, making sure that every child’s wish is granted.
Beyond these holiday-specific programs, The Salvation Army is deeply committed to supporting the community throughout the entire year.
If disaster strikes in the community or at home, The Salvation Army is one of the first organizations to respond and often one of the last to leave. Through specialized training, the organization is able to make a difference when it matters most.
“The truth is, it takes an army to do the work that we do every single day,” says The Salvation Army Divisional Director of Development Charmaine Hauanio-Kuewa. “Because of our donors, staff and volunteers, we have the opportunity to ensure that anybody who may be without food, a house or parents will never be without hope.”
The Kroc Center Hawaii in Ewa Beach is one example of a Salvation Army owned-and-operated facility where people of all ages have opportunities to learn, grow, acquire new skills and build confidence. As the state’s largest community center of its kind, the Kroc Center offers a wide range of programs designed to foster connection and support development.
The Mixed Plate program, for example, brings people together over shared meals and activities. This initiative creates a friendly environment where everyone is welcome and encouraged to connect, share stories and build lasting relationships.
The Salvation Army’s work in Hawai‘i and across the greater Pacific is a testament to the power of collective effort and the spirit of giving and aloha. Its programs bring people together and provide much-needed assistance to some of the most vulnerable populations within our community.
Volunteer opportunities: You can be an important part of this impactful work by volunteering, donating or simply spreading the word.
Every contribution — no matter how big or small — helps to continue The Salvation Army’s continuing legacy of aloha in action.
For more information on how to support The Salvation Army, Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, please see the donation and volunteer contact information below.
THE SALVATION ARMY (nonprofit)
Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division
hawaii.salvationarmy.org
808-988-2136
- Donate to a community: help-salvationarmy.org
- Donate material good (clothing, furniture, vehicles and other items): satruck.org
1-800-728-7825 - Islandwide: registertoring.com
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