Community

Local Salvation Army behind on Red Kettle fundraiser

Donations to Salvation Army Red Kettle bellringers are down 30% across the region, the organization announced Friday.

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The Salvation Army Tacoma Corps, which includes Gig Harbor, had raised a little more than $142,000 as of Dec. 20, according to a statement from the nonprofit. It needs nearly $70,000 more to meet community need during the holiday season.

“We are working hard to provide food, shelter, toys, and clothing to more families across the Northwest this year,” Salvation Army Northwest Divisional Commander Lt. Colonel Cindy Foley said in the news release. “In the midst of the growing need, we are seeing fewer people donating at our virtual and physical kettles. We rely on our generous donors to ensure that Christmas joy is given to everyone, no matter their circumstances.”

Though many people donate by dropping spare change or small bills on the Salvation Army red kettles, that’s not the only way. The kettles also accept checks, or people can donate online at tacomaredkettle.org.

Financial support during the holidays helps The Salvation Army serve more than 600,000 people across the Northwest throughout the year. This year, The Salvation Army Northwest Division — which includes Washington, North Idaho and western Montana — aspires to raise $3.9 million to fund services like the Hope Market food pantries, emergency shelters and transitional housing, utility and rental assistance, addiction recovery, and more.