By Eric Stock
BLOOMINGTON – Salvation Army bell ringers are counting on a major surge in donations in the final day of their annual campaign.
The Salvation Army of McLean County is less than halfway toward its $515,000 goal with 12 days left in the Make a Difference fund drive. The campaign is $18,000 off last year’s pace.
The Salvation Army said about half the money, $124,079, it has raised has come from donations to the red kettles, The rest comes from a mail appeal and other sources.
Development Director Angie Bubon said fewer shoppers are going to brick and mortar stores and people are carrying less cash and that has hurt donations at the Salvation Army’s red kettles.
“We hope that the community will give what they can when they can – no donation is too small, it can all make an impact,” Bubon said. “Need knows no season – money raised in the red kettles supports are programs year-round and allow us to make an impact on the lives of those in need.”
Bubon added the campaign goal was increased this year to make up for funding cuts and increased needs.
The Salvation Army is seeking more volunteer bell ringers. You can get more information at www.ringbells.org.
The campaign ends on Dec. 23.It pays for Salvation Army services throughout the year.
Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.
