Despite what looked like very long odds when it started, the Salvation Army exceeded its goal for the Christmas Campaign. It started in November with a goal of 650,000 dollars, and ended on January 31, 20 per cent higher, at 778,000 dollars.
Quad Cities Coordinator Major Robert Doliber says they optimistically set the goal at a nine per cent increase over what was raised a year ago.
"We weren't even sure going into the campaign, with COVID, more people shopping on line, and being a little leary about going out in person, whether we would be able to increase it at all. So we felt that nine per cent over last year was a stretch goal for us."
Just in the red kettles, local residents increased their donations over last year by 20,000 dollars, to 266,000 dollars. And that was despite a coin shortage, people carrying less cash these days, and doing more of their shopping online.
Doliber says the money raised by the Christmas Campaign buys toys and food during the holidays, and during the rest of the year pays for overnight shelter and food.
"Each week people can come in and get free food boxes, no questions asked, and that's particularly helpful in these times of higher unemployment and uncertainty in job income."
Donations also pay to help local families during disasters, pay for school supplies, and winter clothing for children.
