First started in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle campaign has traditionally been The Salvation Army's most prominent fund-raiser. In 2004, the Salvation Army raised over $100 million in communities nationwide, with the nickels, dimes, quarters and dollars all remaining in the towns where the money was deposited into the kettles.

The funds help to support:

* Many of the 37 million people in poverty
* Utility and homeless assistance
* Senior and child care
* The Army gives food and toys at Christmas
* Drug abuse treatment and many other social service needs.

From its humble beginnings as a fundraiser started by a Salvation Army captain in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown into one of the most recognizable and important campaigns in the United states.

Here are a few more quick facts the this annual fundraiser:

* Last year, the funds helped the Salvation Army provide assistance to more than 31 million Americans in need.
* Holiday shoppers in 2005 contributed a record $111 million nationwide with nickels, dimes, quarters and dollars
* More than 25,000 Salvation Army volunteers ring bells and solicit spare change donations to the iconic red kettles

The history of the Salvation Army began with William Booth, who was an ordained Methodist minister, aided by his wife Catherine, and formed an evangelical group dedicated to preaching among the "un churched" people living in the midst of appalling poverty in London's East End. Booth's ministry recognized the interdependence of material, emotional and spiritual needs. In addition to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, Booth became involved in the feeding and shelter of the hungry and homeless and in rehabilitation of alcoholics and ended up building one of the world's largest charity organizations.

Booth and his associates, originally known as The Christian Mission, became The Salvation Army in 1878, when that organization evolved on a quasi-military pattern. Booth was known as "the General" and officers' ranks were given to his ministers. The Salvation Army has functioned successfully within that unusual structure for more than a century. As of 2006, its outreach has been expanded to more than 100 countries and is able to help the less fortunate and those in need all over the world.