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Salvation Army Emphasizes Online Holiday Giving

December 3rd, 2013

The Salvation Army is best known for its bell ringers during the holiday season. But the Salvation Army of Metro Atlanta says you can also donate through its website.

This is the third year Atlantans can give through the Internet to the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign or choose create an online kettle of their own. But the organization says this year it’s placing more emphasis on virtual giving.

Major Todd Hawks is the metro Atlanta area commander for the Salvation Army.

“We’ve tested it a couple years and the program has gotten better from a software perspective, number one; number two, we do have less days to be at retail locations this year because of the calendar; and the need is as great as ever.”

Hawks says the organization is turning to the funding method, in addition to traditional contributions, as online giving becomes more popular and people carry less cash.

“Everything is more virtual than in years past and it’s becoming more and more so, we’re purchasing things, paying bills and even making contributions.”

Hawks says this year it’s hoping to raise $25,000 from online giving. That’s a small part of the organization’s overall holiday goal which is $2 million dollars. Hawks says the funding will provide year round help and assist 12,000 needy children during the Christmas season.