Wauwatosa - The Salvation Army of Greater Milwaukee announces the launch of its annual Christmas Campaign to help raise money for the needy, the homeless and others who need help during the holidays and year round.

“The economy has made it a rough year for many families, and we’re seen firsthand the numbers of people coming to us for help. Requests are up thirty percent over last year”, said Major Jesse G. Collins, Milwaukee County Commander. “It’s especially hard during the holiday season, with people losing their jobs, their homes and not knowing how they will provide for their families. That’s when The Salvation Army steps in to help. But to keep pace with the need, we must rely on generous people in our community to open their hearts with a donation to help their neighbors.”

This year’s campaign theme, ‘The Time Is Now,’ draws attention to The Salvation Army’s urgent need for the public’s support in the wake of our country’s continuing economic crisis- and the growing numbers of families coming to The Salvation Army for help. Many families are requesting assistance for the first time. Families new to asking for assistance are struggling to make ends meet in this economy, and they desperately need help.

The time-honored Christmas Campaign begins Saturday, November 7 will include traditional fundraising methods such as direct mail-in addition to the highly visible Red Kettles, a holiday tradition that has served as a symbol of good will for more than 100 years.

The Salvation Army in Milwaukee needs to raise $3 million dollars to help sustain vital programs and services. All which help the needy in their daily struggle for survival.

This holiday season is expected to be one of the busiest yet, Salvation Army officials stress that any contribution will help and donations of time are accepted as gratefully as donations of money.

“Reaching out to those in need by volunteering to ring bells or help families coming to our Toy Shop or serving a meal at our annual Christmas Family Feast is a wonderful way to connect with the community, to give back, and to share blessings and holiday joy,” said Major Dale Hunt, Milwaukee County Kettle Coordinator. To volunteer this Christmas season, call 414-302-4300 or visit www.SAmilwaukee.org.

About The Salvation Army:

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination since 1865. Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. About 87 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services in nearly 9,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to http://www.SAmilwaukee.org.