BUFFALO (WKBW) — The annual holiday fundraiser for the Salvation Army is off to a sluggish start. Donations for the Red Kettle campaign are down 24% and organizers say the sluggish year could have drastic consequences for those in need.
There are five fewer days this year for bell ringers to collect donations because of the late Thanksgiving, and organizers believe that is part of the problem. "Right now, donations are down at almost every Salvation Army across the state and we believe it is from the shortened season", said State Commander Major Rock.
To help fill the gap, The Salvation Army will work with law enforcement officers across New York State on Thursday, December 19th for a Bells and Badges event. The Salvation Army is also asking for $20 donations at the Kettles this week to close out the season successfully.
The Red Kelly campaign has been a fixture of the holiday season for 128 years. Red Kettle donations fund the majority of The Salvation Army's programs and services for those in need.
