The Salvation Army's Make a Difference campaign raised $515,375. (WJBC file photo)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County's Salvation Army announced this week it beat its annual Make a Difference campaign goal by over $45,000.

The original goal was $470,000, however when the numbers were crunched the total was $515,375.85. The campaign involved two fundraisers: The Red Kettle campaign and the Mail Appeal campaign, which brought in $232,320.65 and $283.320.65, respectively.

"We're just thrilled that we were able to do this," said Director of Development Angie Fulton. "Especially going into the last week of kettles, we were kind of behind where we wanted to be, and I think the community just really stepped up to support us."

Fulton said the funding will allow the Salvation Army to continue to serve the community.

"We really continue to see an increase in need," said Fulton. "Our numbers continue to stay steady and even rise at the (homeless) shelter."

Fulton added it will also go a long way in helping reach the overall fundraising goal for the year, which is $1.4 million.

"We're also going to be starting a new program in a couple of weeks; an after school program," she said.

The after school program is scheduled to begin Feb. 17.

Fulton said even though the Red Kettles aren't out anymore, to keep an eye out for future fundraisers.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].