KEWANEE, Ill. — The Salvation Army in Kewanee announced that its 2025 Christmas Kettle Campaign brought in an unofficial total of $31,786, falling slightly short of the organization’s $36,000 budgeted goal.

Final figures will be confirmed once December’s financial report is completed, according to a news release from Eddie Toliver II, the 360 Life Center director.

Despite the shortfall, Toliver said community support remained strong throughout the holiday season, even as severe weather disrupted two of the campaign’s busiest weekends, when volunteers from St. Luke’s and the Kiwanis Club were scheduled to ring bells.

Toliver said the funds raised during the annual campaign stay in Kewanee and are used year‑round to help residents with rent, utilities and other essential needs. The local donations play a critical role in providing stability for individuals and families facing financial hardship, he said.

This year’s campaign comes as The Salvation Army works to offset a reduction in approved grants, prompting the organization to seek additional funding to maintain its level of assistance.

The Kewanee Salvation Army has served the community since 1906, offering emergency aid, youth programs, spiritual support and other services as part of its mission to meet human needs without discrimination, according to the news release.

How to Support the Salvation Army Kewanee

Online: https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/360lifecenters/kewanee/
Venmo: https://www.venmo.com/u/salvationarmykewanee

By Mail:

The Kewanee Salvation Army
119 N. Tremont St.
Kewanee, IL 61443

The Salvation Army encourages ongoing community support, noting that local donations directly sustain its food assistance, emergency relief and social service programs throughout the year.