Holiday season already underway, charity donations down

The holiday season is already underway, and there are some troubling numbers for charities in the Milwaukee area. Charities say this is another year of unprecedented demand for services.

For example, the red kettle campaign from the Salvation Army is seeing $15,000 less than what they saw at this time last year.

Major Roger Ross of the Salvation Army says, "The traffic doesn't seem to be as many as we have had in the years before, the donations are just down. I really don't know why."

Their goal this year is to raise $2.7 million for the families in Milwaukee County.

Nicole Angressano of the United Way has also seen a dip in numbers. "I think what we are seeing this year is people who are new to the need, in terms of seeking out assistance both financially and at other times in their lives," she says.

The Meta House opened in the 1960s. It provides a place for women with children to go to beat substance abuse. However, this year is tough for the group and others that help out those in need.

"The country is going through this budget cut and that effects these woman right here and these children who are getting services," says Christine Ullstrup Director of Programs at Meta House. "So as we would like to stay for longer of periods of times, their stays are getting shorter and shorter."

Here is a list of places you can donate to help. Remember, if you can't make a monetary donation, non-profits are also looking for donated items and volunteers.

United Way of Greater Milwaukee

Meta House, Inc.

Salvation Army