The Salvation Army of Bloomington missed its goal in the annual fundraising campaign, but by only a little.
After a tough bell-ringing season, the agency came up about $27,000 short of the $600,000 goal. The not-for-profit that provides services to the homeless and other low-income people in the community said shoppers continue to carry less cash and more shop online. That cuts into kettle collections. The organization said growth in online donations has partially made up for the shift in donor patterns.
"We are grateful to the many generous friends in this region who heard and responded to the needs,” said Major Daniel Leisher, corps officer for The Salvation Army in McLean County. “I would certainly call The Salvation Army's Campaign here in McLean County a success!"
Leisher hopes the result will prevent service cuts, though early in the campaign he viewed that as uncertain.
The Bloomington Fire Department was the top volunteer bell-ringing group, bringing in more than $4.600. The Dave Penn Memorial Award for volunteer of the year is Dr. Joseph Culpepper, who has been volunteering at Safe Harbor Shelter for over 20 years, said Leisher.
