Days of Giving: Salvation Army needs volunteers

The Salvation Army of Wausau and Riiser Energy teamed up for their 25th Annual Holiday Dinner to make holiday meals for locals in Wausau who may not have one.

‘Tis the season for generosity, and Kathy Cookson has been witness to that for decades at her post beside the Salvation Army’s iconic red Christmas kettles.

There’s also the sheer joy that comes from ringing bells.

But unless donations start pouring in, McCourt said it will be hard to meet current needs in the community, let alone rising demand.

He added that they are still looking for volunteers to ring the bell at area businesses.

The donation came just in time for the families. “We’ve had $100 bills and spare change from people’s pockets”. Last year, the Salvation Army spent around $22,000 on food alone, but student volunteers this year also helped raise $5,000 through small-scale fundraisers at school.

There are 19 locations throughout Bismarck and about half still need volunteers. “I believe that it was thought out, I believe they knew what they were doing”.

“There is a lot of need”, Senator Kevin Dahle said. “The community has always stepped up and done its best”.

Charity organizations just hope Montrealers will continue to dig into their pockets or use their time to help out those who are less fortunate; people like Nick Cammarrota, who’s waited in line for a food bag.

“I don’t even think we are going to make $80,000”, he said.

“All the money we collect in Kingston stays in Kingston to support these programs”, said Peterson.

The Salvation Army estimates that it lost over $25,000 worth of donations, but say they’ve recieved help from across the country and are able to give 200 kids 2 to 3 presents and some clothing.

Lori Nickel is the publisher and editor of the Lonsdale News-Review.