Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign donations falling short

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - The Salvation Army needs your help. We are less than a week away from Christmas, and the kettle donations are falling short.

The organization worries people who rely on their programs could be hurt by the drop in donations.

The local branch of the non-profit organization put out Tuesday what it called "an urgent plea for donations."

Individuals, corporations and groups are being asked "to generously give to the Red Kettle campaign."

The funds raised during the iconic bell-ringers go toward year-round programs and services for local residents who are in need of food, shelter and utility assistance, emergency disaster relief, as well as numerous educational, music and after-school programs.

Some officials say the shortfall could be simply because many people aren't carrying as much cash anymore. That's why they've established an online donation portal and simple text line to make it easy for all during the season of giving.

Secure credit card donations may be made online by clicking here or by texting KETTLE to 41444 on a smartphone.

Passersby can place monetary donations inside the red kettles, which are stationed in prominent locations throughout the region, until December 24.

"Good Day Philadelphia's" Karen Hepp spoke with members from the Salvation Army live Thursday morning as they brought their kettle campaign to Fourth and Market streets, right outside our studios in Old City.

Joining us on air was Major Miguel Robinson, a corps officer with the Philadelphia branch.