Red kettle donations to help Salvation Army reopen after Matthew

Flood water from the storm forced about 100 people living in the building to seek higher ground.

"The creek that's behind the shelter rose and all of the water came essentially down Alexander Street," said Capt. Matt Trantham, the Salvation Army director. "We sustained roughly seven inches of water throughout the entire facility."

Water ruined the carpets, doors and personal belongings of those who called the shelter home.

"It breaks our hearts right now that our shelter is shut down temporarily because we know what kind of a need this meets in the city of Fayetteville. If our shelter is not up, it is a struggle," Trantham said.

This year, money collected in the red kettles will not only help those in need, it will also help the Salvation Army reopen.

"We really need folks to come alongside us. Putting money in the kettle goes a long way," Trantham said. "It is one way that will essentially help us throughout the year."

The Salvation Army said they hope to have the shelter open by early next year.