$485,000 fundraising goal looms over Topeka Salvation Army
TOPEKA (KSNT) - The Salvation Army is asking for locals to pitch in and help its organization reach a major fundraising goal.
Major Tom McDowell with the Salvation Army shared a press release with 27 News on Tuesday, Jan. 21 on the Red Kettle Campaign. He said the organization has collected a little more than $360,500 for its 2024 fundraising effort but is looking to raise an additional $124,000 before the end of the month to meet the $485,000 goal.
“Thousands of Topeka residents gave to our Red Kettles this season," McDowell said. "We also want to thank our volunteers who gave of their time to ring. We were closed for two days following the 14” snowfall but in spite of the weather, we served lunch to 74 residents who braved the cold to come and eat. If you believe your local Salvation Army should be there in times of need, give as you are able.”
People were asked to help complete the fundraising goal for the Salvation Army last year by donating around $100,000 to the organization in mid-January. The Salvation Army managed to raise $462,000 last year, receiving a $40,000 donation in the final hours of the campaign but missing the overall fundraising goal by around $2,000.
"There was a significant gift right at the last minute," McDowell said when talking about the 2023 Red Kettle Campaign.
McDowell said a 5% increase was implemented for the 2024 campaign. He said he is trying to stay positive about hitting the larger goal this year as the money will help cover utility and operational costs and give staff pay increases.
"We really need the increase in funding," McDowell said.
McDowell said people who want to help donate to the Red Kettle Campaign can mail a check to 1320 Southeast Sixth Avenue in Topeka or click here. You can visit the Salvation Army of Topeka's website by clicking here.
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