NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) - The local Salvation Army is now getting to make plans to grow and expand some of what it offers as a result of the Red Kettle Campaign over the holiday season. 

Lieutenant Andrew Allen says a late push got the campaign about $6,000 above its target.

“So we did end up finishing strong. Our goal that we had set at the beginning of the campaign was $125,000, and we did end up meeting and exceeding it this year. As of right now, we’re at about $131,000 so we’re very glad we were able to meet and exceed our goal this year.”

Allen attributed the late push to volunteers and the $20 challenge, where local sponsors matched any donation over $20 on the Friday before Christmas.

“We had right around a $17,000 day on that day so that was huge. The community really rallied together and helped to show their support.”

He says the Salvation Army is optimistic about 2020 because of the success of the holiday campaign.

“We’re really excited about our upcoming summer day camp that we’re going to be doing. A lot of new field trips, things like that so [we’re] just gonna continue to meet the need in the community.”

Allen says planning has already before for the next Red Kettle Campaign, with a higher goal and more fundraising opportunities in the works.

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