The Schenectady Salvation Army is reporting a 21 percent decrease in donations at red kettles during the holiday season on Dec. 10.
In the past three years the kettle donations have been very good, said Salvation Army Major Jim Guest. `Counting today, we only have 13 days left with the kettles ringing the bells.`
The red kettles, which are placed outside grocery stores and shopping centers throughout the county are used to garner donations to help the Salvation Army provide food, clothing and other services to local families throughout the year.
According to Guest, the Salvation Army raised over $117,000 during 2008, $3,000 short from their goal. Guest believes that in the last few days of their drive, traditionally people become more generous towards Christmas, but it may be hard for the army to raise $100,000 this year.
On average, the Salvation Army of Schenectady raise $3500 per day at their red kettles, according to Guest.
Residents can also donate to their region online, via zip code, at www.redkettles.org.
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