HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army of Hutchinson kicked off its annual Red Kettle campaign for the Christmas season.

A ribbon cutting by the Chamber was held and followed by a short ceremony where the first coins were dropped into the kettle to kick off the annual fundraiser.

Capt. Paul James says the need is there again this year for many.

“We’re seeing more and more people come through our door and many of them are at their wits’ end,” James said. “We’re grateful that we can meet their needs . . . so we can bring hope into their lives.”

New this year are some high tech ways people can make a donation at the kettle site.

“We have what is called Kettle Pay, but it includes Apple Pay, Google Pay and Bump,” James said. “You put your phone up by it and it will send you a message and you can make a donation.”

James hopes that it will attract more donations from those who don’t normally carry cash with them.

“Many of us don’t have change in our pockets, we don’t carry cash, so this is a way we can do that,” James said.

This year’s goal is $230,000 with $60,000 of that coming from the red kettles each Christmas. To sign up to ring bells this Christmas season, visit registertoring.com.