FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn.–Dan Stoltz, SPIRE Credit Union president/CEO, has been introduced as this year’s Salvation Army Red Kettle Community Chair. Stoltz will replace former Minnesota Twins player, Joe Mauer.
During a special event, Dan announced SPIRE will donate $100,000 to The Salvation Army to help kick off its “Rescue Christmas” campaign. The campaign started early out of concern that donations during the holiday season will suffer because of the pandemic. Kettle collections are anticipated to decline as much as 50% due to fewer kettle locations and ringers, reduced hours, and less cash carried by consumers.
On Friday, November 13, 2020, Stolz rung the inaugural Salvation Army Red Kettle bell, kicking off the 2020 holiday season.
SPIRE noted the potential shortfall is also concerning in the face of the increased need for services. Nationally, demand for Salvation Army assistance has increased 155% this year versus 2019. The pandemic’s economic impact has millions of families facing extended unemployment, food shortages and eviction.
“There is a lot at stake this year because of the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Stoltz. “Starting today we’re rolling up our sleeves to let the community know how they can help.”
Right now, SPIRE is matching all online gifts and other digital donations to The Salvation Army, up to $100,000.
“The support and commitment from Dan Stoltz and the entire team at SPIRE Credit Union are a testament to the incredible compassion this community has for its neighbors in need,” said Lt. Col. Dan Jennings, commander of The Salvation Army Northern Division, which serves all of Minnesota and North Dakota.
At right, Colonel Dan Furry of the Salvation Army Northern Division, with Dan Stoltz, SPIRE Credit Union