The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign is only at 31 percent of its 2015 $375,000 goal with 12 days of Christmas counting down.

“Christmas is the largest, single fund drive for The Salvation Army, providing the means to providing thousands of critical services to local families,” said Major Abe Tamayo, Corps Officer. “We here at the army depend on Christmas approximately one-third of its 1.2 million dollar operating cost, providing us with the financial resources to run our 24 hour operations, serving the poorest of local families.”

He said Salvation Army services include Saint Joseph’s only family shelter, housing parents and children, single men and women, and veterans, providing rooms, food, clothing, hygiene products and quality case management, helping to build a bridge out of poverty. Other services include food pantry and clothing vouchers for those in need.

The army’s community center also provides proactive programs for children and adults. Classes range from character development and investment to cooking and Bible lessons for children. Adults enjoy and benefit from mature instruction and service through a variety of programs. The center is also available for outside groups to use to facilitate their programs and services.

Toys are also in critical need. New, unwrapped toys are needed and may be dropped off at Salvation Army Angel Trees or at the Salvation Army at 602 Messanie. During this Christmas season 660 plus children will receive new toys and food vouchers providing a Christmas dinner will be distributed as well.

Red Kettle Bell Ringers will be out Monday-Saturday until Christmas Eve at location throughout the Belt. The Salvation Army said postal mailed and walk in donations can be sent to:

The Salvation Army

PO Box 1417

602 Messanie

Saint Joseph, MO 64502

For more information on how to give or volunteer call LeeAnn at 816.232.5824.