The Albert Lea Salvation Army is hoping for a record number of donations in the next few days to keep up with increased demand in Freeborn County. Its goal is to raise at least $202,000 through Dec. 31.

To help meet this goal The Growing Hope Foundation, Western Star Masonic Lodge and an anonymous donor have committed to matching the first $10,000 raised in the red kettles on Dec. 22 and 23. These organizations have set aside this money to be used as a match for monies deposited in the kettles on these two days.

Capt. Jim Brickson said this is the first year this approach has been used in the attempt to meet our goal and with the help of a generous community the goal is possible.

“Please consider donating to the red kettles today to help reach the $10,000 match,” Brickson said.

Several kettle locations still remain open and available for volunteers. It is a fact that people are less likely to drop money in unmanned kettles, so consider volunteering some time. To sign up call 373-5710.

If you would like to donate you can online to www.thesalarmy.org, call 800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769), drop money into a kettle, shop at the local thrift store or send a check to 302 Court St. in Albert Lea. When giving online or by phone, be sure to designate you donation to Albert Lea’s Salvation Army.