The holiday season is a time to help neighbors in need.

And the Salvation Army needs your help.

The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division faces an expected fundraising shortfall in its Red Kettle Campaign due to the many impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

So far, in Butler County the Salvation Army has raised nearly $40,000, or half of its goal of $80,000.

The division’s total fundraising goal is $2.3 million.

The current fundraising report reflects a national shortfall in Red Kettle donations that can be attributed to an increase in online shopping and a decrease in people shopping at brick-and-mortar stores due to the pandemic.

The Salvation Army said its fundraising numbers have dropped significantly during one of the most crucial times of the year.

The Christian-centered charity kick-started its Red Kettles far earlier than it has in its more than 130-year history — beginning in September.

The organization anticipated at that time that its fundraising numbers would decline by up to 50%, even as the number of people it serves has skyrocketed.

Some of the money from the Salvation Army holiday kettle campaign goes to fulfilling the wishes of some of those whose Angel Tree tags have gone unclaimed.

With the tags, the Salvation Army tries to fill the Christmas wishes of between 500 and 600 children and senior citizens.

Children and senior citizens who qualify for the Angel Tree program write down their clothing sizes and toy wishes.

Children under the age of 12 can receive free toys, clothes, books, hats and gloves. Senior citizen requests can include clothes, bedding and personal hygiene products.

With a holiday season which seems destined to be more somber and solitary than years past, contributions from the Salvation Army’s contributions grow in importance.

Salvation Army Capt. Darlene Means said because of the pandemic, many are facing a holiday season without a job, a home or in poverty.

The Salvation Army is making an appeal for people to donate by cash, PayPal, text or Angel Tree tag.

“Twenty-five dollars can buy a child’s toy, $50 can feed a family of six with a holiday meal, $100 can provide assistance with utilities,” Means said.

To donate online, visit www.salvationarmywpa.org/RescueChristmas, or donate digitally with Apple Pay or Google Pay at a physical red kettle site at area stores.

Help a neighbor in need.

— JGG