Salvation Army Faces Unexpected Crisis

Columbia, S. C. (WOLO)  —  With five fewer days on Mother Nature’s calendar, the Salvation Army of the Midlands faces an unexpected challenge of meeting the needs of thousands for the Holiday season.

The Salvation Army red kettles are stationed at more than 60 locations across the Midlands. However, they won’t be on display as long this year. officials say that’s a problem, but they’re also hoping you can be part of the solution.”

Major Robert Coulson says the shortage of days is already impacting the charity’s bottom line of giving during its annual Christmas campaign, impacting the five counties its serves.

“We’re $36,300 behind in income so far this year,” said Coulson.  “There is not as much time as you think.

There are 4,200 children seeking help just for the Christmas season alone, says Coulson.  That’s 300-400 more than last year. To help make up for the shortage of days, he encourages digging a little deeper to bring joy, peace and hope this season to children in need.  The red kettle campaign accounts for more than one-third of the Salvation Army’s budget, so October, November and December, he claims, are critical months.

You can expect to see the red kettles out and about until Christmas Eve.