World's largest red kettle constructed in downtown Detroit

By FOX 2 News Staff

DETROIT (WJBK) -- The familiar sights and sounds of ringing bells and red kettles are back for another holiday season.

The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit will launch its annual Red Kettle Campaign on Friday, but FOX 2 had an exclusive look as crews constructed the World's Tallest Red Kettle in Campus Martius Park Thursday morning. The 56-foot tall kettle holds 25,000 lights and will debut during a special kick-off celebration on Nov. 16.

Salvation Army officials say they'd like to raise $8.5 million during this year's campaign.

For those who would like to give their time to the cause, The Salvation Army still has volunteer spots for bell ringers at nearly 450 red kettle locations throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties. All bell ringing opportunities are posted at www.ringbell.org for volunteers to easily pick a preferred location at a convenient time.

To make a tax deductible contribution to The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign:
- Visit www.salmich.org
- Call 877-SAL-MICH
- Text "GOODMICH" TO 80888* (an automatic $10 donation)
- Send a check or money order, made payable to The Salvation Army, to:  16130 Northland Dr., Southfield, MI 48075