Gold Coin Found in Salvation Army Red Kettle: During the holiday season, small acts of kindness can create big ripples of change. This year, an extraordinary gesture caught everyone’s attention—a gold coin found in a Salvation Army red kettle at a Fred Meyer store in Bremerton, Washington. Valued at $2,500, this rare and anonymous donation became a heartwarming symbol of holiday generosity and gave a significant boost to the Salvation Army’s annual fundraising efforts.
Such stories remind us of the power of giving, especially during a time when nonprofits heavily rely on community support to meet their goals. In this article, we’ll uncover the story behind this golden contribution, its impact on local fundraising efforts, and why donations like these matter now more than ever.
Quick Overview of the Gold Coin Donation
| Detail | Information |
| Donation Location: | Fred Meyer Store, Bremerton, WA |
| Value of Coin: | $2,500 |
| Type of Coin: | 1908 Liberty Gold Coin |
| Purpose of Donation: | Support the Salvation Army’s fundraising goal of $220,000 |
| Previous Gold Coin Donation: | 2019 – $1,500 gold coin |
| Fundraising Shortfall Addressed: | $13,000 |
The Golden Gift: An Unexpected Surprise
The sight of a gold coin found in a Salvation Army red kettle is always a delightful surprise. Dropped anonymously at a Fred Meyer store in Bremerton, this coin wasn’t just valuable—it was symbolic. The 1908 Liberty Gold Coin, valued at $2,500, arrived at a crucial time for the Salvation Army, which was working hard to meet its annual fundraising target of $220,000.
Captains Lance and Dana Walters of the Salvation Army expressed their gratitude, calling the donation a much-needed boost. They emphasized how donations of this magnitude bring excitement and hope to both the volunteers and the people who benefit from these funds.
The Importance of Gold Coin Donations
Gold coins have become a rare but cherished tradition in Salvation Army red kettles across the country. While most contributions consist of spare change or small bills, these special coins stand out for their significant value and the thoughtful intent behind them.
Over the years, gold coins have been discovered in kettles across Washington, Pennsylvania, California, and Illinois. Each coin carries its own story of generosity and often comes with a mystery donor who prefers to remain anonymous.
For the Bremerton Salvation Army, this wasn’t the first golden surprise. In 2019, they received a gold coin valued at $1,500. However, this year’s donation, worth $2,500, surpassed previous contributions, setting a new benchmark for holiday giving in the community.
Bridging the Fundraising Gap
The gold coin found in the red kettle couldn’t have come at a better time. As the holiday season progressed, the Salvation Army faced a $13,000 shortfall in donations, threatening their ability to fully meet their annual goal of $220,000.
Every dollar raised through the red kettle campaign directly supports essential services like food assistance, shelter programs, and support for families in need. Donations like these aren’t just monetary—they are lifelines for those relying on the Salvation Army’s resources.
Captains Walters noted that every substantial contribution renews hope and determination within the organization. This single coin doesn’t just represent $2,500—it symbolizes faith in the work being done and trust in the organization’s mission.
Why Stories Like This Matter
The story of the gold coin found in Bremerton isn’t just about its monetary value—it’s about the spirit of generosity that defines the holiday season. Such contributions remind us of the collective power of giving, where even one thoughtful act can create a significant impact.
For many nonprofits like the Salvation Army, the holiday season is crucial for securing funding for the year ahead. Large donations, whether gold coins or other significant contributions, not only help close financial gaps but also inspire others to give.
This anonymous donor’s act of kindness has now become a symbol of hope, motivating both volunteers and community members to contribute in their own ways—whether big or small.
The Tradition of Gold Coins in Red Kettles
The appearance of gold coins in Salvation Army kettles has been a heartwarming tradition for decades. While their origins remain unclear, these coins are often associated with anonymous donors who prefer to let their generosity speak for itself.
From Napa County in California to Kane County in Illinois, gold coins have consistently appeared in red kettles across the United States during the holiday season. Each coin serves as a reminder that even in uncertain times, acts of kindness can shine through.
For the Bremerton community, this year’s gold coin found carries a legacy of hope, trust, and unwavering support for those in need.
How You Can Contribute to the Cause
While a gold coin found in a red kettle is rare, every contribution—no matter the size—makes a difference. Here’s how you can help support the Salvation Army’s mission:
- Donate at Red Kettles: Next time you pass a red kettle, consider dropping in some spare change or a bill.
- Volunteer Your Time: Join the team of bell ringers or help with local Salvation Army events.
- Make an Online Contribution: Many Salvation Army chapters accept donations online for convenience.
Every action counts, and your contribution could be the one that helps someone in need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much was the gold coin found in Bremerton worth?
The gold coin was valued at $2,500.
2. Where was the gold coin donated?
It was donated at a Fred Meyer store in Bremerton, Washington.
3. What kind of gold coin was it?
It was a 1908 Liberty Gold Coin.
4. How will the donation be used?
The funds will support the Salvation Army’s $220,000 fundraising goal to provide community services.
5. Are gold coin donations common?
No, gold coin donations are rare but have been found in Salvation Army kettles across the United States.
Final Thoughts
The story of the gold coin found in a Salvation Army red kettle in Bremerton is more than just a tale of financial generosity—it’s a story of trust, hope, and community spirit. This single coin, valued at $2,500, will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals supported by the Salvation Army.
As the holiday season reminds us, every act of kindness, big or small, matters. Whether you drop a few coins into a kettle, volunteer your time, or make an online donation, you’re playing a part in building a stronger, more caring community.
What do you think about this inspiring story? Share your thoughts in the comments below or explore more uplifting stories from around the world!