SIKESTON — The familiar bells of the Salvation Army are a staple at local stores during the Christmas season and despite the challenges of COVID-19, the bell ringers will be out once again this year.
Beginning Friday, Sikeston Salvation Army bell ringers will be out daily at Food Giant on Main Street, Save-A-Lot and Walmart (on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday), according to Steve Sikes with the local Salvation Army.
With COVID-19 impacting many people in the area, Sikes said he has seen the need for money increase this year after the stimulus money was used.
“Most of the people we help are in need to get along day-to-day,” Sikes said. “That (stimulus) money evaporated and we got more calls, more calls about rent. A lot of the need we are seeing is rent.”
Sikes said they have had some generous contributions this year but they give money 12 months out of the year. He added he doesn’t know what to expect this giving season due to the pandemic.
“I don’t look to do better than in the past,” Sikes said. “The economy is down with many retailers.”
Sikes said one thing some people don’t know is the money that is donated stays in the area.
“Our area is basically Sikeston, Morehouse and Miner and the money does stay here,” Sikes said.
The maximum the Salvation Army can give an individual or a family is $300.
“In this world that’s not a huge amount,” Sikes said. “We are not a social welfare program. We are here to help people out when they get in a jam. I like to say people are not getting a hand out but a help up.”
While COVID-19 has increased the need of those needing help, it will also change things for those ringing the bells.
All of the bell ringers will be wearing masks and bell ringers will also be standing back some in order to social distance.
“That will be a change,” Sikes said. “One of the joys for bell ringers was recognizing their friends and people they knew. With the masks and social distancing, that will be different.”
Sikes said there are still some openings for bell ringers. Those interested in volunteering can call 573-703-2958.
Those interested in donating online instead of in-person can visit the local Salvation Army Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/scottcountysalarmy.
“We are a Sikeston charity,” Sikes said. “We keep the funds here and we get funds from the people here. We think we do a good job.”