Salvation Army kicks off campaign Christmas campaign

With bells ringing and trees in place, the Salvation Army's local Christmas campaign is in full swing.

The Salvation Army celebrated the commencement of its Christmas fundraising efforts Friday evening with a brief ceremony at Hamilton Place mall.

Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield, this year's honorary Christmas chairman, thanked community members who donated to last year's campaign, which raised about $380,000.

"We are challenging the community to do just what we saw last year," he said. "We know that Chattanooga never shrinks from a challenge."

Kimberly George, director of marketing and development, said the Salvation Army was hoping to raise $349,000 this Christmas season. Officials unveiled this year's "kettle vehicle," a 2009 Hyundai Tuscon featuring images of local Salvation Army volunteers and clients. The car is driven around town and in parades to advertise the red kettle campaign, Ms. George said.

"It's just a little extra publicity to keep people thinking about the Salvation Army and thinking about donating," she said.

This year's Angel Tree program is already well under way with more than 1,000 children and seniors already registered. Registration continues this week Monday through Friday.

Major Beverly Lawrence, women's ministry coordinator for the Salvation Army, said the program saw an increase last year because of the poor economy, and she expects it to continue to expand.

"We'll know better by next week," she said. "But it appears to already be up this year."

HOW TO APPLY

* What: Angel Tree program

* Where: The Salvation Army, 2140 E. 28th St.

* When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday

* Who: Families at or below the poverty line with children 12 years of age or younger are invited to register