November 12, 2009
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News: Salvation Army Accepts Plastic
As a nation, we have become more and more dependent on our debit and credit cards that many of us rarely carry any cash in our pocketbooks. Although these cards have made it easier and more convenient to complete our holiday shopping, it has created a shortfall in giving. Most affected has been the Salvation Army who has faithfully rang the bell to raise money to provide food, toys, and clothing to more than six million people during its annual holiday “Red Kettle” campaign. In recent years, as debit and credit card have become increasingly more popular, bell ringers have become all too familiar with the phrase “I don't have any cash on me.” Things are about to change. The Army is testing a new concept with the Red Kettle program this year; debit and credit card acceptance.
The Twin Cities, Minnesota Salvation Army has set a $9 million goal for the Red Kettle this year. According to Maj. Darryl Leedom of the Salvation Army, each year the demand to serve those in need continues to grow; this year it has exceeded 31 percent more than previous years. The Army is optimistic that by accepting debit and credit card donations by the Kettle will help them meet that goal. The debit and credit card option will not be available at all Red Kettle locations, however, a number of cities across the nation will be setting up the payment processing device at several locations. Some cities plan to rotate the device around the city.
Cub Foods and Sam's Club are big sponsors of the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign which has been in existence since 1891. The bell ringing event is traditionally the most important and prominent fund-raiser for the organization which assists over 34 million disaster victims across the nation. The funds raised are also used to help care for more than 37 million poverty stricken and homeless in the U.S. The organization provides assistance to seniors, child care, drug abuse treatment, as well as many other social service needs. Approximately 83 percent of all funds raised go to meet the exclusive needs of these services. With the introduction of the debit and credit card donation option, the agency hopes to raise over $100 million. For more information on the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign, you can visit www.salvationarmyusa.org