‘Rescue Christmas’: Salvation Army asking for help for families in need during pandemic

ALLEGHENY CO., Pa. — A charitable organization is asking for help, as it aims to assist families who are struggling to make ends meet.

Major Philip Lloyd, Allegheny County Coordinator with the Salvation Army, told Channel 11 they’re seeing a decline in Red Kettle donations this year.

So far, they’re down 39% this holiday season as compared to last year.

“We’re a little concerned about that,” Lloyd said. “But we’re not panicking. The public has always come around, especially here in western Pa., so we’re counting on them to come in and help us.”

The drop in donations comes as the organization ramps up efforts to provide food to families and holiday gifts to children in need. More is needed than ever before.

“Throughout the year, the number of people who have been coming to us for assistance has been incredible, and it’s been nonstop throughout the year -- since the early moments of the pandemic and we’ve just seen that continue right through,” Lloyd said.

People interested in donating can do so in-person at a Red Kettle with cash or Google Pay and Apple Pay. You can also text “kettles” to 91999. To donate online, CLICK HERE.

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