Salvation Army sees drop in holiday donations
Dec 9, 2013, 11:57 AM | Updated: 12:02 pm
PHOENIX — The calendar is creating challenges for the Salvation Army.
The late Thanksgiving means five fewer days for the charity’s Red Kettle Campaign to reach its $1.9 million donation goal in the Valley.
“We’re just over 30 percent behind,” said Major Raewyn Aspetia.
She said the Red Kettle Campaign funds over half of their operations throughout the year.
“That includes providing food for people, shelter, a lot of social services to people in need. Helping pay electric bills, rent, Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas dinners and gifts to thousands of kids at Christmas time.”
According to a press release, the Salvation Army said the loss of five days equates to potentially $670,000 less than in previous years. Nationally, the group said it equates to a potential loss of $20 million.
The Salvation Army has 350 kettles across the Valley with donations being accepted through Christmas Eve. You can also donate online at salvationarmyphoenix.org or call (800) SAL-ARMY (725-2769).
