Letter to the editor: Shelter for bell ringers would be appreciated

The holiday season is fast approaching, which means we will again be seeing the red kettles and hearing the bells of the Salvation Army volunteers. My daughter-in-law worked with the Salvation Army in the past and has this to say about them: “I got to see close up the services they provided for people. It’s a good organization and a good charity to donate to. They do a lot for people in the community every day even when there is no major disaster. We put together and delivered food baskets at Thanksgiving and Christmas and there were many other services provided. People would come to the office if they needed food, clothing, shelter, gas, medical care etc and everyone received assistance. The workers were very kind and nonjudgmental when assisting people. The commander and his wife would go to the homeless shelters and the mission to visit with people and hold nondenominational prayer services. The commander and his wife lived pretty simply in a very modest home. I think any donations made to the Salvation Army are wisely used for the good of those in need.”

I have been glad to donate to the Salvation Army red kettles but have been disturbed to see the volunteers having to stand outside the front door at Walmarts. On our cold winter days I sure wish they would be allowed to at least stand in the entry way of the store. For all the good they provide to our communities, can they not at least be given that small consideration?

Christina Long

Berlin, N.D.

Tags: opinion, letters, holiday