PITTSBURGH — It’s that time of year when you expect to hear bells ringing outside nearly every store you walk into.
But, the Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettle Campaign isn’t having the same impact it once did.
The organization’s Western Pennsylvania division says donations are down this season. With less than two weeks to go, officials say only $821,000 has been raised— a little more than a third of the fundraising goal for the season. In Allegheny County, $210,028 has been raised — 38% of the goal for the county.
Local donations to the Red Kettle Campaign support the Salvation Army’s efforts to provide food, rent and utility assistance to those in need across 28 counties in Western Pennsylvania.
“A late Thanksgiving this year means we lost a few critical fundraising days,” said Major Gregory Hartshorn, divisional commander for The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has already made a generous donation. Together, let’s make this Christmas season bright for those who need it most. With your help, The Salvation Army can continue to show that help and hope exist for all who need it, all year long.”
Donations are accepted through Christmas Eve. You can donate in person throughout Western Pennsylvania or online.
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