DETROIT (WWJ) -- The holiday season is arriving in Downtown Detroit, and that means the return of a familiar 'Big Red' sight in the city -- and we don't mean Santa!
The Salvation Army has marked the beginning of their giving campaign with the installation of the "World's tallest Red Kettle" in Cadillac Square, across from Campus Martius Park.
WWJ's Mike Campbell was on hand Friday morning while workers built the 56-foot-tall, 24-foot-wide iconic structure.
The kettle boasts 26,000 sparkling LED lights, which will be put on full display during the city of Detroit and Downtown Detroit Partnership’s Tree Lighting program on Friday, Nov. 22.
Salvation Army Major Charlotte Hall says the red kettle draws attention to the organization’s goal, but also signals the start of the holiday season.
Hall tells WWJ's Mike Campbell that the sound of the red kettle bell has become synonymous with the giving season, and that the Salvation Army is always looking for volunteers.
"Every year when we start hearing that iconic bell, we know that it's Christmas time and that ringing of the bell is so important, and we need people to ring that bell for us," she said.
Officials plan to roll out more red kettles throughout the area around Thanksgiving.
In addition to being able to contribute in-person, you can also give to a "virtual" red kettle at the Salvation Army's website. The red kettles also have digital donations with a "Tap to Give" option using credit and debit cards.
This year’s Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign goal is $7 million, which will support year-round efforts to help residents in need across Metro Detroit.
Those interested in volunteering as a bell ringer can visit registertoring.com, and for more information about The Salvation Army, call 877-SAL-MICH, or visit SAmetrodetroit.org.