As we reflect on the 2025 holiday season, the Salvation Army of Archuleta County is filled with gratitude for the generosity, compassion and faithfulness of the Pagosa Springs community.
This year’s bell ringing campaign was a powerful testimony of what happens when faith is lived out through love and service.
Throughout the season, the sound of bells rang outside City Market as volunteers stood faithfully, often in the cold, offering hope, joy and kindness to all who passed by. Their presence reflected the heart of our community and the calling of scripture: “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18.
This campaign was never just about collecting donations. It was about being the hands and feet of our Lord Jesus Christ and caring for our neighbors in meaningful and practical ways.
How your generosity served Archuleta County
Ninety percent of all donations collected through bell ringing stayed directly in Pagosa Springs to support local individuals, families and partner organizations. The remaining 10 percent was invested through the Colorado Salvation Army district to support efforts that still directly affect Archuleta County, including human trafficking intervention and emergency assistance during wildfire evacuations and disaster response.
Because of this structure, 100 percent of every dollar given ultimately affected Archuleta County, either through direct local aid or through regional resources that serve our county in times of crisis.
Your generosity supported life-changing work through programs such as:
• Rotary Club’s Feed the Children Backpack Program, helping ensure children have food on weekends and school breaks.
• Aspire’s Diapers and Wipes Initiative, providing essential supplies for families with infants.
• Rise Above Violence, offering emergency housing and support for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.
• Pagosa Outreach Connection, assisting families with rent, utilities and transportation.
• Vets for Vets, supporting local veterans with emergency housing and fuel.
• Firewood Program, helping families stay warm during the winter.
• Pagosa Community Initiative, providing enriching after-school programs for local youth.
• Aspen House, supporting individuals with special needs through meals and training.
• Homelessness assistance, including hotel stays, shower vouchers, sleeping bags and transportation fuel.
Each program represents real people and real stories — stories of hope restored, dignity protected and lives strengthened through compassion.
Salvation Army mission
The mission of the Salvation Army is rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. We serve because He served us first, and we love because He loved us first.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45.
Every bell rung and every dollar given was a reflection of this truth. Through your generosity, the love of Christ was shared not only in words, but through action, mercy and care for those in need.
Gratitude for volunteers and partners
This season would not have been possible without the faithful volunteers, churches, organizations, families and individuals who gave their time to ring the bell and serve with joy. Your commitment was a powerful testimony of faith in action.
We are deeply grateful to City Market for its continued partnership and support. Its cooperation allows this mission to reach the heart of our community year after year.
To every donor, whether you gave spare change, a generous gift or a word of encouragement, thank you. Your generosity mattered, and your giving made a real difference close to home.
Celebrating the heart of Pagosa Springs
The 2025 bell ringing season once again revealed the heart of Pagosa Springs, a community that responds with compassion, faith and unity. When needs arise, this town steps forward with love.
Your generosity did more than meet immediate needs. It shared the hope of Christ, strengthened our county and reminded many that they are not alone.
Looking ahead with hope
As we celebrate this season, we look ahead with hope and gratitude. We invite you to continue partnering with us through prayer, service and generosity as we serve Archuleta County together.
Through faith in Jesus Christ and love for our neighbors, we will continue to stand in the gap for those in need.
We look forward to seeing you next holiday season at the red kettle.
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