The new film by Carlos and Alexa PenaVega is about Christmas, football and the mission of the Salvation Army

The Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign has been a staple of the holiday season for over a century, and this Christmas it will be the focus of the upcoming original film, Love at the Kettle (working title).

The film, which stars Carlos and Alexa PenaVega, tells the story of two high school friends who reunite in unexpected ways over the holidays and eventually find love and meaning in life while volunteering at the Salvation Army's Red Kettle.

The PenaVegas have long supported The Salvation Army and have personally been involved in several of the charity's initiatives. In addition to ringing bells for the Red Kettle campaign, the Christian couple, who left Hollywood to put God and family first, have helped distribute food packages to families affected by hurricanes in Florida and most recently helped organize Christmas gifts for families who lost everything in the devastating fires in their hometown of Lahaina, Hawaii.

“We are fortunate to have partnered with The Salvation Army for several years and look forward to representing the true goodness behind the brand and mission,” Carlos said in a recent interview.

According to its website, The Salvation Army's mission is “to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human need in His name without discrimination.” And while the Red Kettle campaign has become synonymous with the holiday season, the charity works year-round to help those who would otherwise be forgotten.

“We are incredibly excited about this film and the partnerships that made it possible,” said Bill Abbott, President and CEO of Great American Media. “Working with The Salvation Army not only enriches the story, but also underscores the importance of giving and supporting our neighbors.”

Also read: Everything we currently know about “Love at the Kettle”

And it's not the only partnership that is sure to make Love At the Kettle a holiday movie to remember. Some of the most exciting scenes were shot at the iconic AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which provided a stunning backdrop for a film that combines the excitement of Christmas, football and the heartfelt message of The Salvation Army's mission.

In fact, filming will mark Carlos' return to AT&T Stadium, where he sang the national anthem with his band Big Time Rush on Thanksgiving Day 2011. And to make his return even more meaningful, the stadium will serve as a backdrop as Carlos sings a song written specifically for the film: “Get Him Back (For Christmas).”

“We're here in the empty stadium… I had to make another video,” Carlos said in a recent video posted on Instagram after filming wrapped. “Guys, this is surreal. I can't wait for you to see it [the film] …Thank you, Cowboys and AT&T, for having us because it was a real pleasure. God is good!”

The film will premiere as part of Great American Christmas 2024.