Salvation Army leaders say they haven't hit their Red Kettle Campaign goal in a few years, but say they are closer than ever this year.
Inflation is affecting charities this holiday season.
The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign is coming to an end this Saturday.
They say they are $20,000 short of their $150,000 goal.
Commanding officer for the Huntsville Salvation Army division, Major Richard Watts, says they may not be seeing as many donations this year due to inflation which has increased overall cost of living.
"You have people that may have less disposable income. So, they may make a donation. Last year, it was $200 dollars. This year, it's $100 dollars," said Watts.
The number of families they help has also gone up by 34 percent.
Watts says it doesn't take long for their money to go when they're spending it on families in need.
"You have more people coming to us looking for assistance, and then the community that we rely on to help us serve those people is sort of decreasing their support," said Watts.
They say every dollar counts and helps them give local families in need access to the basics like food, water and shelter.
In fact, Watts says helping them may actually help you.
"It's the year's end. A lot of times people find themselves in need of a tax deduction," said Watts. "So, if they can make a donation to the Salvation Army, it's totally tax deductible and they're gonna help put the smile on a lot of kids."
