Bell ringers, donations needed now more than ever

EVERY DOLLAR MATTERS, especially to an organization like the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army counts on the Red Kettle Campaign each year to help fund its charitable work, which includes food pantries, emergency housing, rent and utility assistance, coat drives, youth programs, tutoring and backpack giveaways. The funds raised each year keep each branch’s programs operating for another year. Capt. Kara Martin of the Salvation Army Mon Valley Worship and Service Center said this year’s local goal is $56,000 and they are in desperate need of volunteers to ring the bell. As of last week, about $5,000 has been raised so far. “I am making a plea, if you are in the position to assist with a larger donation this year, please consider giving to The Salvation Army,” Martin said. “All proceeds stay local. Many get the mail appeal and it says ‘Pittsburgh’ on the return address; it still stays local. That just goes directly to our bookkeeper. If you are still leery of it, you can put ‘pay to the order of: The Mon Valley Salvation Army’ and that will guarantee it to be designated locally. Or you can just send it to us directly at the Donora address.” On average, the Mon Valley Citadel serves about 250 families each month. That includes all services — food pantry, rental or utility assistance, holiday presents, disaster victims’ services, etc. The campaign raises funds for programs all year long.