GLOVERSVILLE - Salvation Army bells soon will be ringing at supermarkets, department stores and malls in the area, according to a news release.

"Businesses throughout the area have generously provided kettle sites, and we are seeking bellringers who will give a few hours of their time," Capt. Debra Stedman, commanding officer of The Salvation Army in Gloversville, said in the release. "Bell-ringers come in all shapes and sizes and from a variety of venues."

Local churches, schools, service clubs and companies all help provide bell-ringers to support the Salvation Army's effort, Stedman said.

"Anyone who has a few hours and who wants to help those in need is welcome to make joyful noise this holiday season,"?she said.

The Red Kettle Campaign is a yearly effort that raises money to help local families and individuals in times of need.

"Whether they need food from the food pantry or someone to guide them emotionally through hard times, we try to be there for them," Stedman said.

Money that bell-ringers raise locally goes to support local services and programs, she said.

Bell-ringing will start in mid-November and continue until Dec. 24. Anyone wanting to help may call the Salvation Army's local site at 725-4119 or call The Red Kettle Center any time of the day or night at 1-877-764-7259, or go to www.redkettles.org and fill in a volunteer form online.