Meet Big Red: Mankato Salvation Army’s big red kettle has unique family history

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - The biggest giving kettle from the Salvation Army sits inside the Riverhills Mall in Mankato, weighing at about 1000 pounds.

The kettle, the idea of longtime Mankato Salvation Army board member and community member Tom Richards, was built in 2004. The kettle disappeared for many years and returned to the community last year.

But this giving season, all donations inside of “Big Red” will be doubled, with a matching gift from Jones Metal Products and members of Tom’s family.

Learn more about the history of Big Red by watching this story.

You can help make a difference in the life of a member of the community in need by donating to Big Red.

Just scan the QR code and you’ll be taken to Big Red’s online kettle fundraiser.

You can of course stop by the River Hills Mall during regular business hours or you can send a donation to the Mankato Salvation Army, 700 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 56001.

The 2024 campaign goal is $525,000.

All money raised stays right here in the community to help with the day shelter, noon feeding program and other assistance programs

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