With only a handful of days left until Christmas, the Salvation Army is still looking for help reaching its goal for this year's Kettle Campaign.
According to Major Judy Hart, the Jamestown Salvation Army has raised $63,600 this year, putting them nearly $40,000 short of their goal of $100,000 that they hope to raise by Christmas. Donations are also down from this time last year by close to $9,000. Hart said that a primary problem has been the lack of manpower this season.
"We have a lot of open slots for bell ringers this year," said Hart. "We haven't had the turnout that we usually do, and if we could get people at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club, that would give us the push that we need."
Article Photos
Volunteers at the Chautauqua Mall helping out with the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign.
P-J photo by Ryan Atkins
In order to help with the Kettle Campaign, volunteers only need to call the local Salvation Army, where they can then arrange to volunteer for a shift on the schedule.
"All that people need is just an hour of time to spare," said Hart. "We have longer time slots, but if someone can help us out for an hour, that's all that we're asking for. We have all kinds of groups that volunteer, too - individuals, families, groups of friends - it's something that everyone can do."
According to Hart, the feedback that the Salvation Army has been receiving from their volunteers is that it's been a wonderful experience for them. One volunteer, working at the Chautauqua Mall said that it's enjoyable volunteering for this work because of how rewarding the experience is, along with having the opportunity to meet new people.
"For a lot of the volunteers, it's been great for them to see people give generously," said Hart. "We have every bit of faith to believe that we'll get what we need. This community is such a giving community and we feel very blessed by the citizens and how they've supported the Salvation Army."
For more information about volunteering for the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign, the Jamestown Salvation Army can be reached at 664-4108.