Bossier schools raises nearly $5k in Red Kettle Challenge

This year Caddo Parish Public Schools took home the win for the 2018 Red Kettle Challenge, raising $5,142.25 on Saturday, Dec. 1. Bossier Parish Public Schools, who won the challenge last year, brought in $4,982.59. 

The total amount raised this year is $10,124.84, which is $613.96 more than what the two districts brought in during the 2017 Red Kettle Challenge.

“We could not be more thrilled knowing, through our combined energies, Bossier and Caddo Schools exceeded all previous records to make this year’s Red Kettle Challenge the most successful one-day collection effort yet for The Salvation Army,” said Bossier Parish Public Schools Superintendent Scott Smith.  “By bringing both sides of the river together in good-natured competition, we are impacting our community in a meaningful way that also benefits the very children and their families we serve. This has become a holiday tradition in Bossier Parish and one our school family eagerly anticipates each year. Congratulations to Caddo Schools for the big win. We look forward to next year’s re-match!” 

“Five years ago, Caddo and Bossier school districts came together with the goal of working to support The Salvation Army which has a long and rich history in our community. Through this partnership, we’ve made the Red Kettle Challenge the single largest day for fundraising each year for The Salvation Army,” said Caddo Parish Public Schools Superintendent Dr. T. Lamar Goree.  “While the competitive spirit is in us as we push to raise the most dollars through our districts’ efforts, both Caddo and Bossier agree the best part of it all is giving to an organization that puts funds directly into the students we serve locally. We are grateful for our students and staff who took time out of their weekend to come out and serve others and to our community members who gave so generously. We can’t wait to see everyone again next year!”

All the money raised during annual Red Kettle Challenges stays local and benefits our programs, including Merkle Center of Hope and The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club.  Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to have their own Red Kettle Challenge. To volunteer to become a bell ringer with your group visit www.salvationarmyalm.org/shreveport.