An anonymous donor left a half-ounce American Gold Eagle coin valued at over $1,300 to the Ray & Joan Kroc Center in Phoenix of the Salvation Army, which has come through with a Christmas miracle for the needy. The widow did not leave the coin alone; he or she also attached a note that read, “May this gold help the people in need during the Christmas season. Bless you all.”
The face value of the coin is $25, but its appraisal indicated that it was worth more than $1,310 in market value, making this a significant boost for the Salvation Army this holiday season. Captain Dustin Rowe, Kroc Center Corps officer, expressed deep gratitude for the donation. Rowe said, “We witness extraordinary acts of kindness and giving year-round, and this incredible donation is certainly no exception.”
This amazing act of incredible generosity comes just at the time when the Salvation Army is reporting an 18% drop in Red Kettle donations compared to last year at the Kroc Center. Yet with this decline, the center still holds high hopes about sustaining community support during the holidays and beyond.
Support the Salvation Army and maximize your impact
Arizonans looking to support the Salvation Army can take advantage of the state’s Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO) tax credit. Donations made to the organization through Tax Day 2025 can directly reduce an Arizona tax bill dollar-for-dollar. The maximum credit allowed is $470 for individuals filing as “single,” “head of household,” or “married filing separately,” and $938 for “married filing jointly.”
This unique opportunity allows donors to contribute to a worthy cause while also reaping financial benefits. The funds collected go toward critical services such as food for the hungry, clothing and shelter for the homeless, rent and utility assistance, and disaster relief.
Donations to the Salvation Army have a significant impact, with approximately 84 cents of every dollar going directly to essential programs that help communities facing the greatest challenges. These contributions also support senior outreach, adult rehabilitation, activities for underprivileged children, holiday assistance, and emotional and spiritual support for individuals in crisis.
A legacy of giving and hope
The Salvation Army donation only covers a small part of its services. Over 380,000 Arizonans were served last year through varied programs and services. The Salvation Army is a pillar in relieving people, from temporary emergencies during extreme weather to rehabilitation for bad adults.
Capt. Rowe sounded off on the community involvement: “Every donation, no matter how large or small, makes a difference in someone’s life. We are blessed to live in a community where people care deeply about their neighbors.”
There are also ways inspired by the anonymous gold coin donor to give support to the Salvation Army all year round—whether through monetary donations, volunteering, or participating in community events—organizations work to make every act count in helping the Salvation Army in its mission to do the best.
Even during the ongoing holiday season, the Salvation Army has not forgotten to stay committed to individuals in need. Visit the Salvation Army’s website for further information on supporting their efforts or donating.
