Red kettle campaign way below goal - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Red kettle campaign way below goal

By: Kate Pabich
kpabich@cbs4qc.com

Supplying food and clothes for needy QC families is what the Red Kettle Campaign is all about, but the organizer, Gary Felton, says this year's blizzard right before the holiday has really put them back.

"The last two days have been devastating it's about 20 thousand dollars just on our kettles alone so that's pretty devastating."

But the volunteers just keep on ringing, and hoping to catch a generous heart. Major Gary Felton says part of the reason funds are so low is that need has skyrocketed.

"There are a lot of awfully needy people in the QC so the red kettle actually represents people needing assistance it's a great symbol of Christmas and this year the need seems to be bigger than ever before."

Aside from money there are other ways to help out and one five-year-old decided to jump on the opportunity.

"They saw the buckets and asked me what it was and I told them what it was for and they said oh we can do that."

Laura Dehart thinks her two sons will get a lot from volunteering.

"Hopefully they do it every year and have some pride them themselves and feel good about helping and giving their time." 

 Monday is the only day left to donate or volunteer as a bell ringer