JEFFERSON CITY -- It is already that time if year, today the Jefferson City the Salvation Army kicks off its Red Kettle Campaign at 10:30 a.m. at Schnucks on Missouri Boulevard.

The Salvation Army says the fundraiser is the biggest the organization puts on each year and this year it is especially important because of the large number of needy people.

Local politicians, a middle school choir and Star Wars characters will help with the kickoff.