Salvation Army counting on donations

FORT THOMAS, Ky. - While every Christmas you see volunteers out raising money, this year Christmas Eve could decide determine whether or not the Salvation Army will make their fundraising goal for the season.

"I know the charity we have at work, they didn't manage to meet their goals either, because I guess the economy is so bad. I know people are going to the Goodwill and Salvation Army that have donated to them in the past and now they need the help," said Ranita Baker of Fort Thomas.

This year the Salvation Army set their national goal at $3 million. Our share locally in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area is $625,000.

Just three days ago the local effort was still $100,000 short. That's why volunteers were out in force Friday and many donated, like Kevin Matthews.

"My grandfather was a soldier in the first World War and he always said the people that helped the soldiers on the western front was the Salvation Army. And I always remember that every Christmas."

In past days the Salvation Army has even enrolled several well-known faces like former Hamilton County Coroner and now Cincinnati State President Dr. O'dell Owens.

While the final tally will not be confirmed until Monday, leaders with the salvation army pray and hope the past few days have helped.

"It means a lot to the people that need the Salvation Army throughout the year. People need to remember that it's not just Christmas that the Salvation Army needs money. They can help people everyday in every way," Matthews said.