Friday, 13 November 2009 18:38 Written by Nick

Salvation Army sees increase in repeat registrants
                     
(FORT MYERS, FLORIDA) — The number of families that the Salvation Army helped last Christmas was record setting.  With the unemployment being in the double digits, The Army was preparing to set another record this year. “Over the six days of registration, we took in 2,306 applications. The area in which we saw a 6.5% increase was families that were in need again of Christmas Cheer assistance,” said Major Art Penhale, Corps Officer.

   Wednesday, Oct 28:  673 applications
   Thursday, Oct 29:  439 applications
   Friday, Oct 30:   275 applications
   Thursday, Nov 5:  523 applications
   Friday, Nov 6:   170 applications
   Saturday, Nov 7:  226 applications
 
“The need is still great. There are so many people, especially in this economy, who are struggling and wondering what they’re going to do for Christmas,”  said Major Penhale. “ It’s hard for them to provide basic things, much less the extras. 

For over 58 years, The Salvation Army of Lee County has been providing assistance to families during the Christmas season. Christmas is the largest fundraising and outreach event of the year. Monies raised during the Kettle Campaign go not only to support the Christmas Cheer (distribution) program, but also allows the Army to continue providing services and programs throughout the year.