By Sarah Light, staff writer

The Albert Lea Salvation Army kicked off its Red Kettle Campaign this weekend around town, offering chicken soup in an effort to &8220;Feed the City,&8221; as it begins to raise the money necessary to reach its goal of $131,000.

Out taking part in the action at Hy-Vee on Friday and downtown on Saturday were Capts. James and Lee Brickson &8212; who arrived in Albert Lea this summer with their family &8212; and several other volunteers.

The organization gave out the soup to remind people that the Salvation Army aims to feed those in need throughout the community, many times thanks to funds donated from generous area residents.

Funds raised through the campaign at various locations around town help the Salvation Army with a myriad of assistance programs for the community, including after school and summer day care programs for low-income families, temporary shelter, rental and fuel assistance, a food pantry and budget counseling to help families achieve economic independence.

Though this year&8217;s goal is higher than last year&8217;s &8212; which was $120,000 &8212; James said he is hopeful the people of this area will step up to the plate to make a difference.

&8220;I&8217;m pretty faithful they&8217;ll jump in and make it happen,&8221; he said.

The Christmas campaign began after the organization provided 244 baskets during the Thanksgiving holiday to families in need.

Families who may need a little extra help during the Christmas holiday will be able to fill out applications this week from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. starting Tuesday at the organization&8217;s office at 302 Court St.

Items will be distributed from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 19 and 20.

Families that qualify can receive clothing items, toys for children and food vouchers to local grocery stores. All applicants must be residents of Freeborn County and provide proof of residence and income during the application process. Identification for each member of the household must also be shown.

Last year, the Salvation Army assisted 903 people &8212; which included 561 children and more than 300 families &8212; during the Christmas season.

To apply for Christmas assistance or to get involved volunteering this season, contact the Salvation Army at 373-5710.