GERMANTOWN, Md. - An anonymous donor left a golden surprise in a red kettle that will help the Salvation Army in their fundraising efforts this holiday season.
The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command says Captain Karl Dahlin of The Salvation Army Montgomery County found a Canadian gold coin in the bucket placed in front of a Giant Food store in Cabin John on Saturday. While the solid gold coin has a face value of $50, the organization says it may be worth as much as $1,200.
The donation is much needed as the Salvation Army says its Red Kettle campaign is down nearly 15 percent this year.
The money raised through the red kettles helps local families, the homeless and others in need with meals, clothing, shelter, services, programs and other emergency assistance.
For more information or to help donate, go to SalvationArmyNCA.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.