Salvation Army short of goal in Red Kettle Campaign: "We can't risk not doing well"

MILWAUKEE -- It's the season of giving, and the Salvation Army is coming up short. The Salvation Army always sets a high goal for its Red Kettle Campaign -- and that goal hasn't yet been reached. Salvation Army officials are reminding folks that there's still time to give.

"To me it's like giving back. I think people should give," Kenneth Ross said.

Kenneth Ross, Salvation Army bell ringer

The need in Milwaukee is great.

Ross has been a bell ringer for the Salvation Army for three years. On Monday, December 21st, he was soliciting donations at the Pick 'n Save store on Highway 100 in Wauwatosa.

This, as Salvation Army officials are calling for more help as the annual Red Kettle campaign wraps up.

"We can't risk not doing well this year because people are in need and it's going to be a busy year for us," Major Dan Jennings with the Salvation Army said.

Jennings says half the Salvation Army's annual budget comes solely from the Red Kettle Campaign.

"Right now, we are at $2.3 million -- and by the end of the year, we need to be at about $3.9 million," Jennings said.

The great need in our community is why Salvation Army volunteers like Ross are so important.

Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

There's about a month left for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign. The hope is that more than a million dollars can be raised in Milwaukee County.

"That's whey we've been starting a little earlier. It makes me work harder," Ross said.

Bell ringing ends on Christmas Eve -- but you can donate online through January 31st.

Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign