SIDNEY — With just over seven days remaining in the campaign, The Salvation Army of Sidney and Shelby County is currently 30 percent short of reaching their goal of $50,000.

The funds raised through this campaign allow The Salvation Army to provide vital services to people in the community. The campaign ends on Dec. 24, 2016.

“As we enter the final days of the campaign, we’re praying for a Christmas miracle,” said Lt. Joseph Hansen. “We set an aggressive goal to meet the needs of our community and I believe the Lord will provide what we need to serve the lost and forgotten. I’m praying that generous hearts will be moved to help us close the gap by either donating monetarily, or volunteering to ring the bell.”

Operating locally for 130 years, The Salvation Army has relied upon its iconic kettle campaign since the 1890s. Donations to the kettles allow The Salvation Army to provide life-changing social services and other programs throughout the year. In Sidney and Shelby County, The Salvation Army provides an array of social services, including Emergency Food Assistance, After-School Programs, Emergency Disaster Services, Senior Services, and Christmas Assistance.

There are several ways to make a contribution to the 2016 Kettle Campaign. Red kettles and volunteer bell-ringers are located at Walmart, Kroger, and Foodtown. This year’s campaign also includes countertop kettles at various locations. Those not able to visit a kettle location can donate by sending a check to 419 N Buckeye Ave., Sidney, OH 45365.

To volunteer to ring the bell, you may call Lt. Joseph Hansen at The Salvation Army’s office at (937)492-8412. Otherwise, you can visit their Facebook page, search under “The Sidney Salvation Army”, and find the link marked “December Kettles” to sign up quick and easy online. The campaign runs through Dec. 24, 2016.