SALVATION ARMY EYES $100,000 FOR GOAL

The Salvation Army Tree of Lights campaign, used to provide food, toys and clothing to needy families, will hopefully raise $100,000.

This year is the 100th anniversary of the Salvation Army's traditional kettle.

Bob Neff of Cape Girardeau is this year's Tree of Lights Chairman.

"Last year, we raised $85,000, so $100,000 is a nice goal for us to shoot for this year," Neff said. "Plus, it commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Christmas kettle."

Last year, the Salvation Army was able to help more than 3,000 individuals at Christmas time, including children and nursing home patients. Applications for assistance are already pouring in to the organization.

Money raised from the Tree of Lights campaign is also used throughout the year to provide rental and utility assistance, food, prescriptions, lodging, fans, blankets and school supplies for the needy.

"The money goes for the essentials," Neff said.

Salvation Army volunteers will be stationed at area retail stores collecting donations through Christmas Eve.

Although he is confident the $100,000 goal will be obtained, Neff said it will be a challenge.

"It will be hard. The economy is not as strong as you'd like it to be. But there's just something about Christmas that brings out the best in people. And it's a great cause," he said.

The Salvation Army has one of the lowest administrative costs among charitable organizations, Neff said.

"And every dollar we collect for the Tree of Lights campaign stays in the community," he said. "People are virtually helping their neighbor."

Neff also chaired the Tree of Lights campaign last year. He is a member of the Salvation Army Board of Advisers.