Salvation Army struggles as need increases, donations decline

The Salvation Army of Fayetteville is in the final phase of its angel tree Christmas giveaway program. They’re planning to give a lot of families a helping hand this holiday season but, because of some destructive weather across the country, the number of families in need has increased as the number of those able to give has decreased.

The program not only helps children but seniors too. Last year, Joan Dick received help for her seven grandchildren. This year, she’s picking up gifts for her parents, who are in their 70s.

“We’ve noticed more requests for assistance in light of the hurricane, in light of the aftermath, in light of folks trying to rebuild. It’s been a challenge for everyone,” he said.

Trantham said if it was not for the angel tree program, many families would have very little or nothing at all under the tree on Christmas.

The Salvation Army has been able to help about 1,400 families this year, but there is still time to donate. The red kettles will remain at various locations through Saturday and Trantham said the organization is about $4,000 short of what they had raised by this point in 2016.

The Salvation Army is not the only charity noticing fewer donations this year. The United Way of Cumberland County has also reported a drop in donations to many of their campaigns as a result of Hurricane Matthew.