Millions Short: Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign in 'State of Emergency'

WAUWATOSA -- Heavy snow and a round of blistering cold have left Salvation Army bell-ringers, and the organization in Milwaukee County - feeling the heat.

According to a report from CBS 58 on Saturday, the Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign is millions of dollars behind its annual goal and is in a "state of emergency."

The Red Kettle goal for this Christmas is $4 million and current donations total $1,805,835. This Christmas has been very challenging, according to a Salvation Army news release.

“Heavy snow followed by debilitating cold to be followed by more heavy snow is causing us to fall behind. Our bell ringers just cannot risk being out in the severe cold. Kettle contributors are rushing past the kettle to reach the warmth inside the stores. There are only seven bell ringing days left until Christmas,” said Major Steve Merritt, Division Commander for The Salvation Army in Wisconsin and Upper Michigan.

"If we don’t meet our Red Kettle goal, it could result in cutting programs and services. We would not be able to help vulnerable men, women and children in great need. That would be tragic,” continued Major Merritt.

How You Can Help:

• By Mail, send in a check The Salvation Army 11315 W. Watertown Plank Road Wauwatosa, WI 53226
• By Mail, Send in your gift using your mail appeal envelope
• Text “CASH” to 41444
• Make the best gift you can in any kettle
• Donate online at www.SAmilwaukee.org

About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination since 1865. Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. The Salvation Army tracks the level of need across the country with the Human Needs Index (Human NeedsIndex.org). Locally, 88 cents of every dollar raised is used to support programs and services in Milwaukee County.