The Salvation Army's Christmas campaign in Chatham-Kent is closing short of its $450,000 goal.
Despite falling short, officials say they are happy to announce they have achieved 89% of their goal by collecting $400,000 from the community.
“While we are hopeful that the shortfall will be received in the next couple of weeks, all programs will be closely examined to see where savings can be found without directly affecting clients assistance," says Captain Stephanie Watkinson in a release. “It is our plan to do smaller fundraisers for particular needs throughout the year. Our first fundraiser is partnering with Raising The Roof Campaign to sell hats and socks. These funds will be used to assist with our youth programs in preventing and addressing youth homelessness.”
The Salvation Army says the donations that they collected helped them to provide food hampers for almost 900 families and toys for more than 1,000 children.
The funds will also help the organization to assist individuals and families in a variety of ways throughout 2016.
