For many years, Salvation Army volunteer Julie Hansen has served clients across Benton County with social service assistance. Those funds have been raised through bell ringing for the Red Kettle Campaign around the holidays. Her heart for families has always been the hallmark of her service. But you won’t hear bells ringing this season, and the thousands of dollars raised through those Red Kettles will no longer be available to the county’s most vulnerable. Over the last two years, Julie and her husband  Scott Hansen, have tried to find volunteer(s) to take over organizing the Red Kettle Campaign, as well as the social service assistance program. To date, it has been unsuccessful. 

It is with sadness that because no organization or individual has come forth at this point, that as of September 30^th, 2026, there is no longer funding for social service needs, like rent or utility assistance, in Benton County through Salvation Army.

Susan Sharp, Eastern Iowa Service Extension Representative for this area, notes that “Julie and Scott Hansen are the epitome of faithful volunteers and we’re so thankful for the last six years of service they have given red kettle fundraising. They have raised more than any other volunteer unit across the state.”

Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services will remain active in the county and their collaboration with area Salvation Army Corps and Emergency Management agencies is in process.  “I am really impressed with the commitment to Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services in Benton County—from their dedication to training and staying disaster ready to their camaraderie and concern for citizens, it’s hard to ask for a better team!”

Sharp is willing to discuss the opportunity to lead Red-Kettle fundraising and social service assistance in Benton County with any organization or person. She can be reached at susan.sharp@usc.salvationarmy.org.