Given the dismal economy, the Albert Lea Salvation Army knew that its 2008 Christmas Campaign would be challenged. But nobody thought giving levels would be so far behind, so early, a press release stated.

Now at its halfway point, the campaign has only raised $47,100. That’s a mere 36 percent of the Albert Lea Salvation Army’s campaign goal of $134,000.

The hardest-hit category of giving is kettle donations, which are down 22 percent from last year. Kettles have raised about $19,000 since their Nov. 28 introduction; last year on this day, kettles had raised $24,600,

“It is clear the nation’s economic crisis has found its way into Albert Lea,” said Capt. Jim Brickson, administrator of the Albert Lea Salvation Army. “We need the community’s support now more than ever. Without it, families will go hungry, children will go without Christmas presents and worse.”

There are three easy ways to help the Albert Lea Salvation Army:

Make a financial donation at a red kettle, by mailing a check to 302 Court St. Albert Lea, MN, 56007, or online at www.thesalarmy.org/albertlea online gifts can be designated to your specific community.

Sign up to bell ring by calling 507-373-5710. Bell ringing is a fun, free way to raise money for the Albert Lea Salvation Army.

Donate a new, unwrapped toy at the Albert Lea Salvation Army. Toys will be distributed over 1,000 local children.

The Salvation Army Northern Division serves nearly 350,000 people in Minnesota and North Dakota. It has been providing social and spiritual services since 1886, with a mission to give people purpose, hearts hope and souls redemption.