To many, handbells ringing and coins clanking as they fall into The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles are the sights and sounds of giving during the holiday season.

The kettle campaign was started in 1891 by Salvation Army Capt. Joseph McFee, who wanted to provide a free Christmas dinner to the poor in San Francisco.

It’s red kettle season for the Salvation Army. You’ll likely hear the ringing of the bell before you see their volunteers in front of local businesses. They’re collecting for people in need as they do every year around the holidays.