Red Kettle donations falling short

Salvation Army Red Kettle donations are down, and families in need are counting on the community's support this Christmas, local officials said.

In Sandpoint, $12,000 has been raised but an additional $10,000 is needed to serve neighbors in need with Christmas less than a week away, Salvation Army officials said.

Financial support and kindness during the holidays allow the Salvation Army to serve more than 600,000 people across the Pacific Northwest throughout the year.

Donations of cash or check can be dropped into a Red Kettle or made online at northwest.salvationarmy.org. Red Kettle donations help the Salvation Army meet the urgent needs of families throughout the region who will not have Christmas this year without the community's help.

“We are trying to provide food, shelter, toys, and clothing to more families this year and in the midst of the growing need we are seeing fewer people donating at our virtual and physical kettles," Divisional Commander, Lt. Colonel Cindy Foley said. "We rely on our generous donors to ensure that Christmas joy is given to everyone no matter their circumstances."

Bell ringers are desperately needed. To volunteer, please call/text Pam Fox at 208-290-6761, or Anita Byers at 208-255-6930.