The Salvation Army's Western PA Red Kettle Christmas Campaign at only 41% of goal with just two weeks to go until Christmas

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The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division

Dec 10, 2014, 07:15 ET

CARNEGIE, Pa., Dec. 10, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- This is the time of year when thoughts turn to all that needs done in preparation for the holidays, and a sense of urgency sets in. For The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division, that means raising an additional $1,463,000 in order to meet its Red Kettle Christmas Campaign Goal. Certain areas of the division have much more work cut out for them than others, including Pittsburgh's Westside Worship and Service Center, which is currently at only 19% of its goal and over $22,000 behind last year for the same time period. Behind by roughly the same amount and also facing a huge challenge is the Uniontown location, which is only at 26% of goal. The Pittsburgh Temple location is also far off pace at only 14% of goal.

Major William H. Bode, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army's Western Pennsylvania Division remains optimistic. "In my position, I see a lot of good as well as bad in the world, and I believe that good will prevail. Just like the anonymous donor who saw a story on the news about a kettle being stolen who is sending in a check to replace that income, it's that spirit of generosity that will see us through," said Bode. He added, "Those who have been helped in the past remember that and want to give back. Those who have never needed to ask for help are urged to realize how blessed they are and to share those blessings with those less fortunate."

People who wish to give who may not be near one of the iconic red kettles are being urged to donate online at www.onlineredkettle.org. Monies will be directed to a Salvation Army location based on the donor's zip code, or to a specific area they choose. Those who want to help even more can set up their own Online Red Kettle and ask for donations from their family and friends. Corporations, clubs, service organizations, and school classrooms are all being encouraged to set-up their own online kettles. For more information on how you or your group can get involved, please contact your local Salvation Army or Donna Fencik at The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters at [email protected]. When you donate, be sure to share your reason on social media with the hashtag #RedKettleReason.

The Salvation Army is always seeking volunteer bell ringers and additional kettle sites. Please contact your local Salvation Army for more information. In Allegheny County, please call Major Kim Harris at 412-446-1533.

Both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 126 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, log onto wpa.salvationarmy.org, twitter.com/SalArmyPGH or facebook.com/SalvationArmyWesternPA. The Salvation Army … Doing the most good . . . for the most people . . . in the most need.

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SOURCE The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division