Business & Tech

Salvation Army Reporting Drop in Kettle Donations

The Salvation Army's National Capital Area Command is reporting a 80 percent decrease in profits from Giant store solicitation, compared to this time last year. Overall profits are down 32 percent.

The Salvation Army's National Capital Area Command is reporting lower than usual profits in the first weeks of their Red Kettle Christmas Campaign. As of Nov. 26, the Salvation Army headquarters in Germantown has reported an 80 percent decrease in profits from collection outside of Giant food stores, and a 32 percent decrease in overall collection.

"We remain concerned, but we are very optimistic," said area command major Steve Morris, in a recent statement. "I believe with the help of everyone in the Greater Washington Area, The Salvation Army will reach its goal of 1.6 million dollars."

According to communication manager Ken Forsyth, one of the contributing factors to the decrease in profits has been Giant's new solicitation policy, which reduces the number of days the Salvation Army can fundraise outside of Giant stores to one week in November and one week in December, four hours each day.

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Foresythe added that Salvation Army's 262 ringers typically work an average of eight to 10 hours throughout the season. Last year, the National Capital Area Command reported $232,378 in profits, $123,552 of which came from solicitation outside of Giant stores. Giant said they have instituted the policy change to improve customer shopping experience. 

"We receive hundreds of requests from these groups requesting permission to use the areas outside of our stores for fundraising, education purposes, and to collect signatures," said Giant spokesperson Jamie Miller. "In order to best serve our customers, and not hinder their shopping experience, it is necessary that we operate within established guidelines."

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As of Nov. 26, the Salvation Army has collected $158,375 this year, compared to $232,378 this time last year.

The Salvation Army also collects contributions at other locations including Safeway and Macys. Residents can also donate to Salvation Army by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY or by texting GIVE to 85944, and a $10 donation will be made to The Salvation Army. 


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