They kicked off their annual red kettle bell ringers campaign in Columbia at Saturday's football game and Sedalia's campaign kicks off on Monday. Though it might be tough to give in tough economic times, that is when donations are needed the most.

"We are anticipating up to 400 families will be registered by December 9th,Last year we had 270 some, so yes its a significant increase.The need is up, so we really have to raise the level of our fundraising to match the level of need in this community," said Major K. Kendall Mathews of the Columbia Salvation Army.

The largest kettle in mid-Missouri goes to special events. With it's help, the Salvation Army is hoping to raise $311,000 this year. That is up significantly from last year, but the need is up as well.The Salvation Army's Tree of Lights campaign consists not only of the Red Kettle campaign, but also of a mail campaign. However, if you can't afford to make a cash donation this year, there are plenty of other ways you can help out.

"This is a volunteer army, its important for people to know that volunteering is just as important as ringing the bell, you may want to come and volunteer to ring the bell, but there may opportunities for you to volunteer for thanksgiving, with our thanksgiving dinner just right around the corner," explained Matthews.

The Salvation Army is really about supporting the local community, and local families in need, but it takes families and communities to help families and communities."I was taught that charity begins at home and spreads abroad. My parents taught me volunteer ,and a lot of the parents of this community are doing the same thing," stated Mathews.

Even after the holidays are over, there is always more need, and the Salvation Army will still be there."We have people how come help us all year long, its not just Christmas that we are helping people," said Captain Mark Haslett of the Sedalia Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army warns that impostors have been going door to door. The major stresses that the salvation army never solicits door-to-door and any legitimate volunteer will have a Salvation Army I-D card.