BLOOMINGTON -- Bells have begun ringing throughout Bloomington-Normal and it couldn't have come at a better time.

The Salvation Army of McLean County started its 2009 Red Kettle campaign and annual direct mail drive with an event Friday outside Macy's in Eastland Mall.

Capt. Scott Shelbourn, Salvation Army corps officer, said The Salvation Army is experiencing increases in requests for services. For example, 61 people asked for rent or mortgage assistance at the beginning of November, compared with 20 to 25 people a year ago.

Last Christmas season, The Salvation Army helped more than 1,400 families with food and gifts and Shelbourn expects that number to be higher this year. Meals and overnight stays at the Safe Harbor shelter and utility assistance also are on the rise, he said.

"We can't help them all," he said. "That's why we ring bells."

Twenty-four Red Kettles overseen by volunteer bell ringers went up Friday outside retail locations throughout Bloomington-Normal. Kettles will be up until Dec. 24.

This year's goal is $370,000 -- $210,000 from the kettles and $160,000 from donations mailed to The Salvation Army. Last year, $367,000 was raised -- $202,047 from the kettles and $164,953 through the mail. Donations support services throughout the year.

Bloomington Police Chief Randy McKinley said police see firsthand the benefit to individuals and the community of the work of The Salvation Army. McKinley, honorary chairman of this year's Red Kettle drive, was a volunteer bell ringer outside Macy's.

Among donors at the Macy's kettle was Penny Cermak, a Salvation Army board member.

"This is a time when, more than ever, we can empathize with those who are down and out because we all know people experiencing hardship," Cermak said. "It's tempting to say ‘I don't have the money' but every little bit counts."

How to help

Anyone wishing to help The Salvation Army may contribute at a Red Kettle or mail a check to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 3186, Bloomington IL 61702-3186.

To volunteer as a bell ringer, go to www.ringbells.org or call Andrea Raycraft at 309-829-9476 ext. 204.

SOURCE: The Salvation Army