Governor Paul LePage today (Nov. 14) will help kick off the Salvation Army's 'Annual Christmas Kettle' campaign at a brief ceremony at the Statehouse in Augusta at 9:00 a.m.

Governor LePage said, "For 122 years, Salvation Army red kettles around the world have been linked to the Christmas season and to compassion for the needy. The heart of Maine beats especially strong this time of year. Mainers are generous people known to help our neighbors and the kettle campaign is one way to help those who need it most."

A Salvation Army Brass Ensemble will also be part of the festivities playing holiday carols.

The charitable organization expects to have more than 100 red kettles throughout the state on street corners and shopping areas through Dec. 24. The Salvation Army statewide Kettle campaign goal is $800,000. Last year, funds donated at these kettles enabled The Salvation Army to provide services and programs to more than 55,000 men, women and children statewide during the holidays and throughout the year.

If you are unable to make it to one of the kettles, you can make a donation on-line.

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