The Salvation Army's Red Kettles Are Out Again

I have been skeptical about the Salvation Army for many years. They have a long history of serving the poor and needy. They also have a long history of anti-gay and anti-trans discrimination and a desire to remain allowed to legally discriminate against poor people and employees who belong to the LGBT communities (see here for more information). In fact, they have been highlighting LGBT people connected to their ministry in various ads over the past year, including this one.

And there's no doubt that they have been doing good in my local community. They offer free meals and outreach opportunities. They assist people with paying bills, repairing vehicles, and purchasing bus tickets. Last winter, they provided space and warmth for homeless people who would otherwise be forced onto the streets during the frigid daytime weather.

So I took a step yesterday. And I left a dollar in the Salvation Army kettle at my local grocery store.

Which seems like a tiny thing. Which it is. I give much more to other charities. But I'd once vowed to never support the Salvation Army because of its anti-gay policies. It's taken a while -- and I'm still a bit dubious -- but I'm willing to bend slightly. Which sounds horribly selfish, which it is. But in a world of charities, I'm allowed the ability to use anti-gay discrimination as a factor for narrowing down my charitable choices.

Anyway, here is where you can learn more about the Salvation Army and the "Red Kettle Reason."