Target has banned Salvation Army bell ringers from its premises.
In 2004, Target announced a new corporate policy that banned Salvation Army collection kettles from its storefronts. The retailer had a no-solicitation policy at its stores but previously had made an exception for the SalvationArmy. That exception finally went by the wayside when in a September 2004 statement, Target spokesperson Carolyn Brookter said the chain 'determined that if we continue to allow the Salvation Army to solicit, then it opens the door to other groups that wish to solicit our guests.''It's becoming increasingly difficult to have an exception to our policy, so we decided we would have no exceptions,' Brookter said. 'This year we just said it's time to ... make our solicitation policy consistent.'The Salvation Army's kettle campaign raises up to 70 percent of the Salvation Army's total annual income, which funds shelters, meal programs, Christmas toys, after-school programs and emergency assistance:The 'miracle' of Christmas is repeated over and over again through the joy of caring and sharing. The traditional red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene, with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors, and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season. Donations provide Christmas dinners, clothing, and toys for families in need. Financial assistance also helps with basic necessities, along with seasonal aid. Families of prisoners often are included. Volunteers distribute gifts to shut-ins in hospitals and nursing homes, and shelters are open for sit-down dinners. The Salvation Army endeavors to bring spiritual light and love to those it serves at Christmas so that the real meaning of the season is not forgotten. Many families receive aid over a period of months after the Christmas season as well, people struggling with difficult family, emotional, or employment problems.In November 2006, the Salvation Army announced Target had launched a multi-faceted Christmas partnership with it that would include an online version of The Salvation Army's Angel Tree Program and a donation by the retailer of $1 million to get that program up and running. Target also promised to donate 100% of proceeds from the sales of a limited edition Harvey Lewis angel ornament accented with red Swarovski crystals to the Sally Ann.Barbara 'kettle chip'd' Mikkelson
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