The annual sports-themed Red Kettle Kick-off on Friday brought in a record amount of donations totaling $18,250.20! The Georgia Bulldogs were once again, crowned the Kettle Kick-Off Champions.

Was a great competition with Georgia Southern coming in second place, barely edging out Augusta University. This was the first year the US Army and Air Force teams joined us in the Kettle Kick-off and the Air Force Falcons were close on the heels of the USC Gamecocks.

1.        Georgia Bulldogs
2.        Georgia Southern Eagles
3.        Augusta University Jaguars
4.        Alabama Crimson Tide
5.        University of South Carolina Gamecocks
6.        Air Force Falcons
7.        US Army

The teams brought in a record $16,799.20 with The Salvation Army kettle at the kick-off collecting $1,451 for a kick-off total of $18,250.20. In 2014 the kick-off total was $16,076 and $12,745 in 2013. The record kettle totals come after record high shelter populations this summer, normally a slower time for our shelter. The Salvation Army’s Center of Hope homeless shelter experienced over-capacity by 103% in June, 104% in July, 126% in August and 141% in September. With women and children being the largest increase.

The Kettle Kick-Off began with a speech by The Salvation Army officer Major Tony Perez and a concert by The Salvation Army Band playing Christmas carols. Throughout the day, kettles were set up to represent college sports teams, such as the Eagles, Jaguars, Gamecocks, Bulldogs, the Tide, Falcons and Army.  People and alumni were encouraged to donate to the kettle representing their favorite team. Volunteer are needed for ring the bell at red kettles. To  volunteer contact Ali at 706.434.3185.