The Salvation Army has kicked off its annual Red Kettle donation campaign for the holiday season.

Members of the organization lined up outside of Chambers Plaza at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center to promote their annual message of “Doing the Most Good.”

“This is our time to collect funds from the communities where we serve so we can continue our work throughout the year,” says Maj. Jonathan Jackson, divisional secretary for the Salvation Army of New Jersey.

The annual Red Kettle campaign originated in 1891.

“We’re just asking for people not only to give their time, but to donate money if you can, to help support the kids of Newark,” says Mohammed Oliver, basketball coordinator for West Side Community of the Boys and Girls Club.

This year’s mission is to support a youth basketball program.

Three families also went home with gifts for their children during the ceremony.

“It gives the kids something to look forward to. They really enjoy having that time and that connection making new friends, and it's positive and I just love it,” says recipient Star Grant.

“With the basketball program, my daughter was allowed to just use that platform to get better athletically, as a leader in a community,” says recipient Dwayne Dixon.

Donations to the Red Kettle program can be made in person or online at the Salvation Army's website.