News 14 Carolina's Porcha Johnson has more.
RALEIGH -- The Christmas season is underway and the Salvation Army bell ringers are working hard to make Christmas a little merrier this year for some. However donations are going downhill this holiday season.
Salvation Army bell ringers are asking for pocket change, dollars, and anything that will help them reach out to more children this year.
“It’s great to see people come and give a few dollars, give a few quarters, whatever because all the money ends up going to needy children,” said Mike Robbins.
The Salvation Army said, so far kettle donations are down nearly 20 percent this year. However, they still hope to meet their goal of $140,000 in donations. The Salvation Army said getting a few bucks in the kettle gets more difficult every year.
“It’s becoming more difficult to continue, retailers have "No Solicitation Policies" that prohibit the kettles,” said Ashley Delmar with Salvation Army of Wake County.
However, the salvation is still finding a way to get donations.
Donations are down so far this year.
“The online kettles are our newest tradition, now three years old, individuals can visit and sign up on www.keepthebellringing.org,” said Delamar.
Salvation Army said K-Mart, Wal-Mart, and Harris Teeter are some locations that are always welcoming of bell ringers.
“We volunteer here every year throughout the whole season at this site,” said Robbins.
But even if the goal is not met this holiday season, some donators said it’s just good to give anytime.
“It’s always good to give any part of the year,” said Antione Staton, donator.
“It is good to give back, not just during Christmas though, all the time,” said Donya Cook, donator.
Starting Monday, Salvation kettles will accept money left over on gift cards. For information on how you can donate or be a volunteer click HERE.