The Salvation Army of Bloomington fell just short of its $520,000 goal during its annual “Make a Difference” fundraising campaign.
The Salvation Army’s red kettle campaign raised $208,517 this winter, missing its $220,000 target, but its mail and online appeal surpassed its goal by bringing in $309,665, leading to a $518,182 total.
"We are grateful to the many generous friends in this region who heard and responded to the needs. I would certainly call The Salvation Army's campaign here in McLean County a success,” said Major Dan Leisher. “We came close enough that no change to services will be needed. We had a time where we had a measure of uncertainty, yet many of our communities rose to the challenge and donated.”
The Salvation Army said kettles continually bring in less money each year as more consumers shop online and carry less cash.
The campaign funds Salvation Army services throughout the year, including its Safe Harbor shelter.
The Salvation Army on Thursday honored its top bell ringers, including the Bloomington Fire Department, which brought in $8,000, the most of any volunteer group. Salvation Army food pantry volunteer Sue Miller received the Dave Penn Memorial Award, given to its top volunteer of the year.
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