ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. – Following the retail frenzy of Cyber Monday, the focus shifts to Giving Tuesday, a day established in 2012 to encourage charitable donations and community support.

This Giving Tuesday, News 6 is partnering with the Salvation Army at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs, featuring the world’s largest red kettle. The event aims to highlight the organization’s mission and the individuals it serves.

According to Major Roger Glick of the Salvation Army, the red kettle and Giving Tuesday play a vital role in sustaining their year-round commitment to “Doing The Most Good.”

“Our focus on preventing homelessness is crucial,” Major Glick explained. “We utilize case management to assist with rent, utilities, and other essentials, as individuals often come to us in crisis. Giving Tuesday is pivotal in addressing these needs, which are significant.”

This year, the Salvation Army aims to raise $100,000 on Giving Tuesday. Notably, 60% of their annual donations are received during the holiday season, including contributions to the Angel Tree program.

“I do this every year. It’s probably the most joyous thing I do for Christmas. I have no family here and I’ve done this for many, many years, I’m getting choked up,” said Sandra Frick, who’s adopting an angel as part of the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.

“I always make sure I get a little one. I have such joy in that. Everything on this card I can go buy,” said Frick.

For Eric Rodriguez and Lindsey Rich, adopting angels is a way to honor their daughters who passed away.

“Last year we didn’t know what we wanted to do to honor our daughter Giannella so we created a Facebook group called ‘Gifts from Giannella,’” said Rodriguez. “We found the Salvation Army and it’s an awesome program and we are very excited to help our healing by helping others.”

“We ended up blessing 11 people last year. We’re hoping to far exceed that expectation this year and make it even bigger than it was,” said Rich.

Proof that giving can become a gift that keeps on giving even in the darkest of times. Major Glick says despite struggles and inflation, he has faith that Giving Tuesday will still be a success this year.

“Everybody’s feeling the crunch, everybody’s feeling that pinch and you know, charities do too, but I have faith,” said Major Glick. “I have faith. I believe in the goodwill of people and I believe that people want to find a place where they can put their dollars, and they see that as an investment in changing lives.

News 6 will be with the Salvation Army at Cranes Roost Park from about 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. on Giving Tuesday.