The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign, which kicked-off on Thanksgiving Day, is off to a slow start.

Local officials say the fundraiser is critical to year-round operations of essential services to those most in need across New York

They're encouraging community support through volunteering and donations.

“The Salvation Army has kettle locations across all of New York State. The money raised through this campaign is used to support thousands of local residents each year. And every indicator, every predictor that we use points to even greater need this holiday season,” says Major Ivan Rock, State Commander of the Empire Division. “This is why we need this campaign to be successful.”

To donate or learn more, visit empire.salvationarmy.org, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY, or contact your local Salvation Army office.

The Red Kettle campaign ends on December 24th.

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