The Salvation Army is highlighting its purpose of helping those who are most vulnerable with this year’s “Love Beyond” theme as the 132nd Red Kettle campaign, the longest-running charitable fundraising of its type, gets underway. Love Beyond is also a representation of the tools and initiatives that 25 million individuals depend on year-round when they seek help from the biggest direct supplier of social services in the nation. ”
More than 2 million people rely on The Salvation Army during the holiday season alone, but the truth is our communities need help year-round” said Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder, National Commander of The Salvation Army. “Financial support on Giving Tuesday is critical to providing love beyond the holidays to millions in need whether through emergency disaster services, housing, feeding, or youth support.”
As families encounter difficulties in the lead up to the holidays, the number of people in need of assistance with food, housing, and utilities is growing. According to the most recent data from the US Census Bureau, 91.8 million Americans have trouble making ends meet.
“Expenses to shelter and feed the most vulnerable have dramatically increased due to inflation and supply chain issues. Food prices have seen their highest increase since 1979. Requests for help are growing across the country with many Salvation Army locations seeing an increase from 30%-50%. That’s why Giving Tuesday matters.” added Hodder.
More than 25 million Americans received services thanks to money raised in 2021.
