It's a sight and sound that's familiar this time of year. Many annual charities are getting underway and the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign is one of them. Every time you drop money in one of the red buckets, that money stays in Grand Island.

"The Red Kettle Campaign that we do here in Grand Island represents about a third of our budget for the funds that we need to do what we do here in Grand Island year-round. So it's a very important campaign for us not only to raise money for the holidays, but also for our year-round programs as well," said Mowers.

Captain David Mowers with the Salvation Army says no donation is too small. All that extra change really adds up.

"Sometimes people wander if their handful of change is really making a difference. Last year here in Grand Island, we raised over $20,000 in coins. So that handful of change, when we add it up with change from everyone else, it really makes a difference," said Mowers.

The Grand Island Fire and Police Departments are also getting involved. 'Toys for Tots' is another national campaign that benefits children in Grand Island. Captain Todd Morgan says it's a simple way to make a difference for local kids.

"It's a very worth while cause. Especially right now, with the economy the way it is, one little toy for a child on Christmas morning really means a lot," said Capt. Morgan.

And on 'Black Friday'... a day all about buying, Mowers says it's important to remember others.

"As we're out on Black Friday, shopping and buying things for our friends and family, it's also a time we can remember those who might not be able to do that and we can help by giving," said Mowers.