HUNTSVILLE — Entering the final weekend before Christmas, the Salvation Army in the Greater Huntsville Area is behind in its annual Red Kettle Campaign.

The organization has raised $118,618 with a goal of $150,000, leaving more than $31,000 needed to ensure critical services are supported throughout the year for Greater Huntsville neighbors in need.

Community members can make an immediate, local impact by donating online at huntsvillekettle.org.

“This season, we’re seeing more families facing tough decisions between groceries, utilities, and housing,” said Maj. Joseph May, commanding officer for the Salvation Army in Huntsville. “The Red Kettle Campaign is what helps us respond — not just at Christmas, but all year long.

“We’re asking our community to help us close the gap in these final days.”

The Red Kettle Campaign is the Salvation Army’s largest and most critical fundraiser, providing much of the funding that supports local programs and services throughout the year. The organization is urging supporters who don’t have time to stop in person to give online at huntsvillekettle.org.

Every dollar goes to support local services. Last year, the organization provided Christmas gifts to more than 1,500 local children who might otherwise have gone without.

Red Kettle donations help provide pantry, food box distribution, hot meal service, emergency shelter services, housing assistance, emergency financial and utility assistance, and youth programs for individuals and families when they need it most.

How to help 

• Give online: huntsvillekettle.org
• Ring the bell: Volunteer as a bell ringer at huntsvilleal@uss.salvationarmy.org or call 256-536-5576.

“Every gift — no matter the amount — helps us keep our promise to this community,” said May. “If you haven’t had the chance to give at a kettle in person, please take a moment to give online at huntsvillekettle.org. Your support stays local and makes help possible.”

For more information about the Salvation Army, or to learn more about the Red Kettle Campaign, call 256-536-5576 or email huntsvilleal@uss.salvationarmy.org.