From sales at its thrift store to plans for a camp stew fundraiser, the Salvation Army in Pike County is busy.

Donna McLaney, Pike County Salvation Army advisory board chair, said the store – a primary fund-raising effort for the agency – is in the midst of a seasonal transition sale.

In addition, “The Salvation Army Service Center also has a food bank and donations to the food bank are always needed and appreciated,” McLaney said. “Right now, the most pressing need is for powdered milk and grain products. Of course, we always need protein products, including peanut butter.”

The Salvation Army’s annual camp stew fundraiser is set for Oct. 4, with pickup from noon until 6 p.m. at the Salvation Army Thrift Store.

“Carter Sanders will prepare the camp stew and, everyone who has ever had his camp stew knows how good it is,” McLaney said. “The camp stew will be $10 a quart with all proceeds going to Pike County Salvation Army to assist people in need right here at home.”

The Pike County Salvation Army advisory board is looking ahead to its largest annual fundraiser, the Red Kettle Campaign.

“We always need bell ringers and we encourage church, civic and school groups, as well as individuals, to volunteer for this most important fundraising campaign,” McLaney said. “We have six Red Kettle locations here in Pike County and we begin ringing after Thanksgiving. Since Thanksgiving comes late this year, we’ll have fewer days to ring and that could affect the amount of money that we raise.”

McLaney said the Pike County Salvation Army’s plans for the 2013-2014 year also include its annual Empty Bowl fundraiser in the spring. McLaney said hopes are to have about 200 handmade bowls for the event, many of which will be made by local celebrities.

“The Pike County Salvation Army Disaster Team has been certified and is ready to respond to emergency situations,” McLaney said. “Our team is qualified to respond o emergencies outside of our area if needed.”

For more information about the Pike County Salvation Army or to volunteer, call 808-1069.