The Albert Lea Salvation Army had reached its kettle campaign goal as of Saturday morning.

Capt. Jim Brickson said he was thankful for everyone in the community who helped and donated funds. He said the Salvation Army was about $40,000 away from its entire campaign goal of $202,000.

He was hopeful and confident that the organization will reach that goal by its Dec. 31 deadline.

“The community’s been very receptive to the needs of the Salvation Army,” Brickson said. “With the Christmas goal I’m pretty confident we’re doing well again, but there’s always a little concern with any campaign.”

Money raised goes to support local families in need of food, temporary shelter, rental and fuel assistance and budget counseling to help families achieve economic independence, to name a few of the services.

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.