The Salvation Army Celebrates a Successful 2024 Christmas Campaign, Thanks Community for Support
Knoxville, TN – The Salvation Army of Knoxville is celebrating the success of its 2024 Christmas Campaign, made possible through the incredible generosity of the local community. This year, thousands of families, children, and seniors received much-needed assistance through a variety of holiday programs. Thanks to the support of local businesses, churches, community groups, and individuals, the Angel Tree program ensured that 984 children and 262 seniors woke up to gifts of toys, clothing, and other essentials on Christmas morning. The iconic Red Kettle Campaign also played a crucial role, raising $225,991.92 in Knox, Anderson, and Campbell Counties, helping fund vital programs and services. This represents an increase compared to last year’s total of $193,951.86.
The Salvation Army of Knoxville would like to thank some area businesses and organizations that went above and beyond this year to provide a matching donation for the Red Kettle Campaign. These matching donations ensured The Salvation Army met its goal. These business and organizations include ORNL Federal Credit Union, House-Hasson Hardware, the Morgan Wallen Foundation, TVA, K&P Remodeling, and Home Federal Bank.
In addition to gift distributions, The Salvation Army provided holiday meals to 3,979 individuals and families at Thanksgiving and Christmas, ensuring that no one in our community went hungry during the holiday season. Volunteers and donors made these efforts possible, offering not only nourishment but also hope and holiday cheer to those facing hardship.
Among the many individuals touched by these efforts was the Williams family:
The Williams family had been through a tough time, living in a small Econolodge room after losing their home. With three kids to care for, Christmas felt like just another reminder of their struggles. But that all changed when the Salvation Army received a last-minute referral for the family through the Angel Tree program. Thanks to our Advisory Board, we quickly gathered a small Christmas tree, toys, clothes, and gift cards to make their Christmas special.
On Christmas Eve, the family celebrated in their motel room, the small tree glowing in the corner with gifts beneath it. The children’s faces lit up with joy, and for a moment, the weight of their situation lifted. The gifts weren’t just material items; they were a symbol of hope and kindness.
But the hope didn’t stop there. The family had been approved for an apartment, but they couldn’t afford the deposit. Through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program, The Salvation Army was able to help with the deposit and rental fees. The Williams family moved into a two-bedroom apartment the following month, finally having a place they could call home.
In the months that followed, the father secured a job with a mortgage company that is now helping the family work toward homeownership. For the Williams family, Christmas had become the turning point, a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope can shine through.
Their story is a reminder of the true meaning of the season and the difference that kindness and generosity can make in people’s lives.
“The Christmas season is a time of hope and giving, and we are incredibly grateful for the support of our community,” said Major Cameron Henderson, Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Knoxville. “Because of your generosity, we were able to bring joy to children and seniors, provide meals to those in need, and continue serving the community beyond the holiday season. Thank you for making a difference!”
While Christmas is The Salvation Army’s most visible season, its work continues year-round. Programs such as emergency shelter, food assistance, and emergency financial assistance provide vital resources to those in crisis. The Pathway of Hope initiative helps families break the cycle of intergenerational poverty through case management and long-term support. Youth programs, including after-school homework clubs and summer camps, give underprivileged children opportunities they might not otherwise have.
The Salvation Army relies on community support to continue its mission. To donate, volunteer, or learn more about local programs, visit https://www.salvationarmyknoxville.org/ or call 865-525-9401. Donations can also be mailed to:
The Salvation Army of Knoxville
409 N. Broadway
Knoxville, TN 37917
Thank you for supporting The Salvation Army and helping to make a lasting impact in our community.
