During the months of November and December, Salvation Army “bell ringers” were seen at storefronts across the nation with their red aprons, standing by the well-recognized Salvation Army red kettle.

In Marshalltown, the ringers were spotted in places such as Walmart, Hy-Vee Food Store, Hy-Vee Drug Store, Theisens and Hobby Lobby.

This year, the familiar campaign ended on Dec. 24, but with only 88.8 percent of the monetary goal received. The Salvation Army had a goal of $70,500 but only raised $62,585.26.

That means the non-profit organization still needs $7,914.74 and will continue taking donations for the campaign through Tuesday.

T-R file photo Joe Carty of Marshalltown is a regular volunteer Salvation Army bell ringer.

Captain Pam Kasten attributes the campaign’s shortcomings to the lateness of Thanksgiving this year.

She said donors typically wait until after the holiday to get in the giving spirit of Christmas.

Kasten said that if the donations remain 10 percent below the goal, the organization’s budget will have to be revised, potentially cutting into the programs that support people all throughout Marshalltown.

When the budget is revised, the organization typically tries to cut back on costs such as utilities or other non-necessities before cutting into the budget of individual programs.

Though all programs would be impacted, Kasten said that it would greatly impact programs such as the youth program, as the budget will not allow for as many outings or events.

“If we make the goal, we’re able to do what we had planned,” Kasten said.

Because the Salvation Army works to help those already in need, a revision of the budget would mean a greater impact on people at their most vulnerable, meaning that they may not receive the help that they need.

All of the money donated to the Marshalltown Salvation Army stays in Marshalltown and goes directly back to help the community.

“We are not oblivious to what they’ve already done and we’re so grateful for their continued support that we get year round,” Kasten said.

To make a donation:

• Donations can also be mailed to P.O. Box 482, Marshalltown, IA 50158.

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Contact Shannon Rabotski

at 641-753-6611 or

srabotski@timesrepublican.com.