The Salvation Army has sent out an S.O.S. in an effort to shore up a big gap in giving this holiday season. Here's the press release:
The Salvation Army of Batavia is $6,000 behind in its Red Kettle Campaign, compared to this time last year, and is barely half-way to its $65,000 goal, reported Captain Robert Kurtz, director.
Describing the situation as urgent, he attributed the shortfall to the tough economy, not enough outdoor bellringers, the weather, and, with the prevalence of debit/credit cards, fewer people carrying cash.
“We need more bellringers, especially in the evening,” the captain said. “Even though we are quite a bit behind, we trust in the community to help us serve those in need. We have committed to provide food and toys for 760 needy families this Christmas.”
The community can help in three ways, he noted.
- Become a bellringer (especially groups). Call 585-343-6284; call The Red Kettle Center toll free at 1-877-764-7259, or go online to redkettles.org.
- Become a virtual bellringer by going to onlineredkettle.org.
- Send a tax-deductible check directly to the local Salvation Army, 529 East Main St., Batavia, NY 14020
He added: “We thank everyone who has volunteered or made a donation, and we are grateful to our community and neighbors who remember those less fortunate.”
