Third coin found in Salvation Army kettle in Lake County

WAUKEGAN – For the third time in recent weeks, a gold coin has been donated to a Salvation Army red kettle in Lake County.

The latest coin, a 1/4-ounce fine gold American Eagle with a market value of $650, was dropped Dec. 4 in a red kettle outside the Jewel-Osco in Libertyville,1300 S. Milwaukee, Ave.

The market value of all three coins is $2,315.

The donations will support programs at The Salvation Army Corps Community Center in Waukegan, which serves surrounding communities, including Lake County.

According to the news release, the financial impacts of inflation and skyrocketing food and housing prices have left many local families and individuals struggling during the holiday season to put warm meals on the table, worrying about gifts under the tree and uncertain about how they will afford to stay in their homes as harsh winter temperatures approach. Donations at Salvation Army red kettles help meet those needs through programs such as food pantries, rent and utility assistance, Christmas gifts for children and seniors and emergency disaster services.

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign dates to 1891 in San Francisco. Gold and silver coins donated to The Salvation Army red kettles have become a holiday tradition. Donations – big or small – can be made at red kettles with money and coins, digital wallets and text messages. Donations also can be made virtually at salarmychicago.org.