The Salvation Army
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Wednesday is the last day of the Salvation Army of Reno County's Annual Christmas Fundraising Campaign. Yearly, over 8,000 community members utilize the services at The Salvation Army. Each year, they help distribute coats, hats, gloves, Thanksgiving gift cards, Christmas food baskets, and toys to thousands of people.
For Christmas alone, The Salvation Army served 914 families up from 761 families the previous year. This means 830 more individuals were fed over the previous year’s total of 1728 individuals. 321 more children received gifts compared to the previous year. Total individuals served was 3408. Major James said, “This work could not have happened without the generosity of a communities looking out for their neighbors. Many donors and volunteers made this possible.”
Yet, The Salvation Army is still short just over $30,000 from its goal.
This goal represents the beginning of its annual fiscal budget, but it is also the largest fundraising portion of its overall annual need to operate the programs that help so many. “We’ve seen less and less funding since COVID, and this year there aren’t ARPA or State dollars for our area for those needing rent and energy assistance. Our support primarily comes from community donation, and inflation has hurt those who typically donate financially,” said Major Paul James.
With less funding for rent and utilities and so many more seeking assistance, The Salvation Army needs your financial support.
Major James said, “We’ll have to see if any outstanding donations come in, and we hope this information will spur people to give now and throughout the year.”
You may drop off donations at The Salvation Army’s office located at 700 North Walnut, or send your donations in the Salvation Army return envelopes from their mailers. There has been confusion with their Iowa return address, but please know that all donations get processed at a central facility and return to their Hutchinson, KS bank accounts.
Please call Major James at 620-663-3353 with any questions on how to donate or if you’d like to make an online donation.