The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Drive for 2017 started Friday after a Thursday night kickoff at Bradley Square Mall. State Representative Dan Howell and Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland led the festivities that included the Prospect Elementary School Choir - Ovation and the Tennessee Christian Preparatory School Choir.
Sgt. Ruthie Forgey of the Salvation Army said all Red Kettle donations in Bradley County stay in Bradley County.
Several hundred people watched the program which included The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Drive.
"This season the goal is to serve 986 children and seniors who will otherwise have nothing for Christmas," said Joel Rogers of the Salvation Army. Last year the drive served over 700 “angels.”
Mayor Rowland continued his tradition of placing the first donation in a Red Kettle. Rep. Howell made the second donation.
The program ended with a closing prayer by the Salvation Army’s Major Karen Lyle.