The Salvation Army’s New Jersey’s Third Annual Kettle Kick-Off began on Tuesday, November 28. It is known as Giving Tuesday, with Red Kettle stands at New Jersey train stations including the Trenton Transit Center and Hamilton.

Trenton City Mayor Eric E. Jackson and Trenton Thunder mascot Boomer were on hand at the Trenton station. Morning commuters at Newark Penn Station and Secaucus Junction also saw the Red Kettle stands. The goal is to raise $1.9 million. Funds collected during the campaign will provide for families and individuals across the state during the holiday season and year-round, sustaining the programs and services from The Salvation Army that help people in need manage their daily lives.

“Many families are still finding it nearly impossible to stay afloat financially, and we’ve seen it firsthand in the increasing number of New Jersey residents who come to us for help,” says Major Ivan K. Rock, State Commander of The Salvation Army in New Jersey. “The Red Kettle Campaign is integral to the lives of many New Jersey residents, and is made possible in conjunction with our Platinum sponsors, Prudential Financial, Contura Energy, and LENNAR as well as all the other companies and individuals who support our mission to transform the lives of those in need in our state.”

Last year, 708,884 individuals in New Jersey received assistance from The Salvation Army, which included holiday and seasonal assistance, food pantry, soup kitchens, after-school programs, emergency shelter and much more. Additionally, The Salvation Army served over one million hot meals statewide last year.

Kettle stands are now at various retailers, malls, and grocery stores until Christmas Eve. To make a donation to The Salvation Army in New Jersey, text NJKETTLE to 41444. To make a gift, send checks to: The Salvation Army 575 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08609. To learn more about The Salvation Army’s holiday efforts and to get involved, visit SalvationArmyNJ.org.