Bloomington’s Salvation Army misses bell ringing campaign goal by small margin

Posted on February 21, 2023
The Salvation Army of Bloomington also had several days of severe weather causing bell ringer cancellations. (Scott Miller)

By Jake Fogal

BLOOMINGTON – The Salvation Army of Bloomington fell short of their campaign goal for the bell ringing season.

The Red Kettle Campaign saw a decline in funds raised as consumers have been doing more shopping online this winter season. The Salvation Army totaled $572,673 through donations, just missing their campaign goal of $600,000.

The organization received $135,572 through the kettles, and more than doubled that amount with donations through mail appeal/online reaching $437,101.

Even though the goal was missed the Salvation Army is thrilled at how much was raised and that they were able to come so close.

“We are grateful to the many generous friends in this region who heard and responded to the needs,” Major Daniel Leisher, Corps Officer for The Salvation Army in McLean County, said. “I would certainly call The Salvation Army’s Campaign here in McLean County a success! We came close enough that we are hoping no change to services will be needed; however, this will require further evaluation. Early in the campaign, we had a measure of uncertainty – yet many in our region rose to the challenge and gave to support their neighbors in need.”

Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].

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