The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County says there is still time to help make up a $45,000 deficit this year.
Last year, the Red Kettle Campaign raised $4 million.
“This year we're just a little bit further behind,” said Major Dan Jennings.
Jennings says he always gets nervous toward the end of the campaign, and this year, milder weather may have hindered donations.
“The nice weather, even though we've enjoyed it and been able to get out more, sometimes it hinders the fundraising at the kettles,” Jennings said.
However, The Salvation Army believes “need" knows no season.
“This means we have to tighten the belt a bit or we can't have as many programs as there are needs. We make a promise that we're going to serve all those that have needs in our county,” Jennings said.
One way the campaign helps is with the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Family Feast held on Dec.25 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Wisconsin Center.
This year 8-10,000 people are expected to show up for a warm meal.
And just this week, someone in La Crosse donated a gold coin in a red kettle valued at $1,000.
But while the bell ringers have gone silent for the season, the Salvation Army is hoping people will help by mailing in their donations.
