The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County announces that California Assemblymember James Ramos will serve as keynote speaker at the Red Kettle Kickoff celebration, marking the official launch of the 2026 holiday fundraising campaign. This year's theme is Transforming Lives. The event will take place on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Event Center in Highland, California.
The iconic Red Kettle campaign is The Salvation Army's most recognized and cherished fundraising initiative. This year's kickoff celebration will bring together community members, volunteers, local business leaders, and supporters to celebrate The Salvation Army's year-round commitment to serving the hungry, homeless, and hopeless throughout San Bernardino County.
Assemblymember Ramos's participation underscores the critical importance of community partnership in addressing homelessness, poverty, and economic inequality in the region.
Assemblymember James Ramos, who represents the 40th Assembly District, has been a steadfast advocate for vulnerable populations and has championed legislation addressing housing insecurity, homelessness, and support for low-income families. His commitment to social justice and community welfare aligns perfectly with The Salvation Army's mission and values.
"We are deeply honored that Assemblymember James Ramos will join us to kick off this vital campaign," said Major Adam Morales, corps officer for The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County.
"His leadership in advocating for our most vulnerable neighbors resonates with The Salvation Army's core mission. The Red Kettle represents hope and compassion in action, and his voice will help amplify our message that every person deserves dignity, support, and opportunity. Every dollar donated during this campaign directly supports the emergency shelter, meals, job training, showers for the homeless and other services we provide year-round to families and individuals in crisis," said Major Adam Morales
"The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County exemplifies what's possible when a community comes together with compassion and commitment," said Assemblymember James Ramos.
"For over a century, this organization has provided lifesaving services to our most vulnerable neighbors—shelter, food, addiction services and support. The Red Kettle campaign is essential to sustaining and expanding these services during the holidays and year-round. I'm honored to help amplify The Salvation Army's message that no one in our community should face poverty, homelessness, or hardship alone."
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County serves thousands of residents annually through comprehensive social services. Last year's Red Kettle campaign raised over $136,921, enabling the organization to expand emergency shelter capacity, distribute holiday meals and gifts to families in need, and deliver disaster relief assistance.
With increased need across the county, this year's goal is to raise $150,000 to expand services and reach additional vulnerable populations during the critical winter months.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County provides a comprehensive range of services, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, meal services, disaster relief, children's programs, elderly services, food pantries, and financial assistance.
Red Kettle donations support all of these programs, ensuring that individuals and families have access to hope and opportunity regardless of their circumstances.
Ways to Support the Red Kettle Campaign include making a donation at the kick-off event on October 20, volunteering to ring the Red Kettle bell at retail locations throughout the season, donating online at www.salvationarmyusa.org, sponsoring a family through The Salvation Army's Holiday Assistance Program, supporting the campaign through corporate, business, and community organization partnerships, and contributing in-kind donations of essential items and supplies.
Red Kettle Kickoff Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Bear Springs Event Center, Highland, California
Admission: $250 per person
Features: Keynote address by Assemblymember James Ramos, live music, food, volunteer sign-ups, and donation opportunities
The Salvation Army is actively recruiting volunteers to ring Red Kettle bells at strategic retail locations throughout San Bernardino County during the holiday season. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. Those interested in supporting this vital campaign can sign up at the kick-off event on October 20 or visit www.salvationarmyusa.org/volunteer for more information.
You can donate in person or online. To donate online, go to SanBernardino.SalvationArmy.org. If you are Hungry, Homeless, or Hopeless, The Salvation Army can help. Call (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is one of the largest charitable and service organizations worldwide, serving San Bernardino since 1888 and supporting those in need. They serve the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead and other mountain communities.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination.