Salvation Army receives three gold coins
Staff report
YOUNGSTOWN
Three gold coins valued at $3,400 together brought the Salvation Army Northeast Ohio Division a little closer to its fundraising goals of $350,000 for its Red Kettle Campaign.
The gold coins were found Wednesday in three local red kettles. One coin was found inside the Canfield Giant Eagle kettle and the others were found in two separate kettles at the Austintown Giant Eagle.
“Whoever is doing it wants to be anonymous,” said Maj. Elijah Kahn of the Salvation Army. “We want them to know that we appreciate the donation.”
On Thursday, the local Salvation Army in Youngstown had the three coins appraised by Ace Diamond and Jewelry Brokers Inc. in Boardman, which purchased the coins.
The coins were a 1-ounce South African gold Krugerrand; a 1-ounce Canadian gold Maple Leaf; and a U.S. 1-ounce Grant Wood Medal put out by American Arts.
Last year, the Salvation Army received two gold coins locally.
“We are blessed to live in an area that is really generous,” Kahn said. “We have caring people and compassionate people. It’s just heartwarming.”
All money collected in the county stays here, Kahn says.
“It is used to feed the hungry, to clothe them and aid in the social programs provided here in the county,” Kahn said.
The Salvation Army hopes to be able to reach its goal of bringing in $350,000 before the campaign ends Saturday.
“The good thing is, the last six years we have made our goal,” Kahn said. “This year we are little far behind.”
The kettles can be found at 42 stands throughout the county. Donations also can be sent to the Salvation Army.