The Salvation Army red kettle, a tradition begun back to the 19th century, has been updated for the 21st century. Passersby can now donate to this charity with Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Most people are well familiar with volunteers during the holiday season ringing a bell and asking for donations to go in the kettle. This no longer has to be cash.
Cashless donations are a answer for people who’d like to give but no longer carry currency. Instead, they pay for everything with credit cards or wireless transfers, like Apple Pay or Google Pay. This year, their donations can be done that way too.
The Salvation Army tested taking cashless donations last year, and while it only brought in a moderate amount, it’s part of the charity’s efforts to reach out to young people.
Of course, those who have a dollar or two in their pocket can still drop it in the red bucket.
History of the Salvation Army red kettle
The Salvation Army put out the first kettle in 1891, asking for donations to feed poverty-stricken people on Christmas.
It has since spread around the world, and this charity takes in the majority of donations during the holiday season. Today in the US, the Salvation Army assists more than 4.5 million people during the Thanksgiving-to-Christmas period.
Via: Chicago Tribune
