Local Salvation Army officials are both hopeful and uncertain entering the final stretch of their red kettle campaign.
Dover – New Philadelphia captain Andrew Behr says the annual campaign is the largest funding source for numerous Salvation Army programs.
He says they could have to make some tough budget decisions heading into the New Year if donations don’t pick up, and they could always use more volunteer bell ringers, as they’ve only raised about 25 percent of this season’s 100-thousand dollar goal.
“I kind of have hope. It helps take that uncertainty off the table. When we end the season, we always revisit our budget and figure out how we’re going to make ends meet and what are we not going to be able to do.”
The campaign, which ends on Christmas Eve, does usually see a surge in donations closer to that date.
Behr says locations with red kettles this season include Walmart and both Buehler’s, as well as Drug Mart and Giant Eagle -when staffing allows. To volunteer, go to www.registertoring.com.
Behr meanwhile is thanking everyone who helped make their angel tree program a success. The Salvation Army distributed toys to families last week, benefitting over 100 kids. He calls it heartwarming.
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