Ventura Salvation Army bell ringing campaign underway

VENTURA, Calif. – The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign is underway in Ventura. 

Bell ringer volunteer Wesley streeper is so jolly, he says kids think he’s Santa.

"I’m ringing the bell for Salvation Army to collect donations and I like being here and I look like Santa Claus and it came by by mistake so I’m keeping this," said Wesley.

But life wasn’t always easy for Wesley. 

For fifteen years, he lived inside his car.

"I was living on the street. I was unable to keep myself clean and keep myself sanitary. It was very difficult," said Wesley.

Thanks to the Salvation Army, Wesley says he was able to turn his life around.

:They really helped me out got me off the street put me in a better place and a positive attitude," said Wesley.

Now he’s giving back by ringing the bell for the organization’s red kettle campaign.

"To raise money to help people in the community toys for the kids food for the families seniors … to have the funds to help our community," said captain Juan Torres of the Ventura Salvation Army.

As the holiday season gets underway, the Salvation Army is still welcoming volunteers to ring the bell

"The busiest season for Salvation Army and we rang the bell for five weeks and we have five different locations," said social services director Denise Adams of the Ventura Salvation Army.

100 percent of funds raised will support programs in the Ventura County area.

As for Wesley, his plan to give back isn’t stopping any time soon.

“No way! As long as they’ll have me as long as I’m able to ring the bell cuz this is going nowhere," said Wesley.