ST. CLOUD -- The Salvation Army is a little over half-way to achieving their red kettle goal this season.

Community Development Director with the Salvation Army, Jim Muellenbach says the cold weather has made it difficult for people to donate.

"We're $17,000 behind last year [at this time] and the cold weather hasn't been helping but I understand there's warmer temperatures coming next week. You know we only have nine days left."

Muellenbach says the goal is to reach $200,000 by Christmas Day so far they have reached 54 percent of their goal. If you would like to make a red kettle donation but don't feel like braving the cold, Muellenbach says you donate from home.

"If it's too cold or even if you're shopping online you can still give to the red kettles, you can send it a check just identify it's for the red kettles on the check and send it to the Salvation Army - 400 Hwy 10 South, St. Cloud MN 56304."

Bell ringers are out Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m - 7:00 p.m. at over 20 locations in the St. Cloud area.

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