Jefferson City Salvation Army says it could cut programs without adequate Red Kettle donations

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Jefferson City Salvation Army is wrapping up the final hours of its Red Kettle Campaign on Wednesday, but the nonprofit says it needs even more donations to keep running its current programs.

Spokesperson Melinda Jennings said the goal was to raise $410,000, but as of Tuesday afternoon, the Salvation Army needed $76,000 to reach it.

"If we do not close this gap, we will be forced to make difficult decisions, including potentially reducing or cutting essential programs that support vulnerable families and individuals in our area," Jennings said.

The 2025 Red Kettle Campaign started on the 38th day of the 43-day federal government shutdown.

ABC 17 News spoke with Major April Clarke, who said the Salvation Army was seeing an increased need among people who were relying on the free resources before the shutdown, furloughed workers and people who lost SNAP benefits during the shutdown.

The Red Kettle Campaign collections go until 6 p.m. Wednesday, and donations will continue to be accepted through Dec. 31.

Check back for updates.