Northampton Elks to stuff a VA bus this Sunday

FLORENCE — Northampton Lodge of Elks No. 997 will stuff a Veterans Administration van with canned goods, nonperishable food and clothing for local veterans and their families this Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 17 Spring St., in Florence.

“Nationally one in five veterans suffers from food insecurity, which is nearly double the average for the general population,” says Lou Gingras, Northampton Elks Lodge No. 997 Loyal Knight. “Support for veterans is the Elks number one priority and we are asking veteran groups and the public to join us at our Lodge this Sunday by donating nonperishable food, new clothing (especially sweat pants and underwear size L, XL), as well as monetary donations for veterans and their families.

Donuts, coffee and hot chocolate will be provided for everyone dropping off donations.

The food will be distributed to area veterans and their families by the Veterans Food Panty, which is in The Lake Building, Building 7, VA Central Western Massachusetts Health Care Center, 421 N. Main St., Leeds. The VA opened the food pantry in 2022. Persons unable to drop-off food at the Elks Lodge can do so at the Veterans Food Pantry each weekday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call VA Voluntary Services at 413-582-3033 or Northampton Elks Lodge No. 997 at 413-584-0297.

Salvation Army calls for Red Kettle volunteers

CANTON — The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division is kicking off its annual Red Kettle Campaign across the state, and volunteers are needed in almost every region.

The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division works every day to be a critical resource and part of the safety net by providing Christmas gifts and food, offering support for bills, and providing shelter to those without a home. All Red Kettle proceeds support The Salvation Army’s work with individuals, families, and households in the communities where donations are collected. On average, volunteer bell ringers raise enough money to provide nearly 200 meals to children and families in their respective towns.

The first local Red Kettle campaigns of 2024 are already underway, while others will launch between now and Thanksgiving. Areas with upcoming campaign launches that are still in need of volunteers.

The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division is setting out to raise more than $2.25 million to help support critical year-round social services through this year’s Red Kettle Campaign. To volunteer at a Red Kettle or donate online, visit salvationarmyma.org/redkettle to learn more.

Santa Claus coming to Holyoke Mall

HOLYOKE — Santa Claus is set to make his grand return from the North Pole to Holyoke Mall on Saturday. The magic begins at 10 a.m. with a special fire truck arrival, at the Red Entrance near Round 1.

Santa Claus will be escorted to his village in Honor Court by the Colby Academy of Dance, followed by a special holiday performance from the group.

The holiday festivities continue with free face painting and balloon twisting by Dazzle Day Face Painters.

Photos with Santa are available in Honor Court near Hobby Lobby immediately following his arrival until Christmas Eve. Reservations are recommended and can be made by visiting whereissanta.com.