CINCINNATI — Kroger's family of stores, which includes 2,468 supermarkets and multidepartment stores in 31 states under two dozen local banner names, once again has kicked off the Red Kettle campaign in support of The Salvation Army.

The Red Kettle campaign enables The Salvation Army to assist 30 million Americans in over 5,000 communities across the country, Kroger said. Each year, Kroger customers and associates provide food, clothing, toys and social services in the communities where funds are raised. In 2009, Kroger customers and associates contributed $11.3 million to the campaign, which represents 8% of the record $139 million raised nationwide.

"The annual Red Kettle campaign lets our customers and associates make a real difference in the lives of their neighbors in need, one small donation at a time. We value our long-standing partnership with The Salvation Army and the impact the campaign makes in the communities we serve," said Lynn Marmer, group VP corporate affairs for Kroger.