Salvation Army works toward 2018 donation goal in nearly cashless society

(FOX 9) - As the holidays draw nearer, Salvation Army volunteers enter the final push to reach donation goals. 

It all comes as the organization faces an increasingly cashless society – as well as at least two thefts in the past month.

Edina bell ringer Becki Carroll said that compared to previous years, she is seeing fewer donations.

“It is concerning if they don’t feel they have a way to give if there is no cash for the day,” Carroll said.

According to the numbers, people in the Twin Cities donated more than $1.6 million so far – a similar number compared to last year, but lower than those seen on Dec. 17, 2016. 

However, just because you can’t find any spare change doesn’t mean you can’t give at the kettles.

This year, you’ll now find QR codes on kettle signs, so even a cashless society can still give at stands like Becki Carroll’s.

Major Bob Doliber said the Salvation Army’s entire goal is to raise $11.9 million in the Twin Cities this holiday season with only a portion of that coming from the kettles. But right now, Doliber said they’re down about $600,000 compared to this time last year.

“We’re doing the best we can to get the word out. We have a generous public and we’re hopeful,” Doliber said.