Salvation Army running out of time to reach holiday fundraising goal

FORT MYERS, Fla.- The Salvation Army has only reached half of its $650,000 goal with eight days left of the annual holiday fundraiser.

Some of the people in need are the very ones you meet going into the grocery store.

Even just in passing, you’ll realize each Salvation Army bell ringer is unique. Some share the gift of singing, and others share their story.

“It’s excellent, you meet great people and they’re so nice and so generous,” said Elizabeth Miller.

Hundreds will pass by, and some will donate. Each dollar can help change a life like Miller’s.

“I lost my apartment because I lost my job,” said Miller. “It was very confusing because I had never been in a situation like this to where I needed help, you know. I always had my mom but she had died 7 years ago,” said Miller.

Miller didn’t just need help for herself, she is 7 months pregnant.

“Very stressful, very depressed because I didn’t know… having a baby boy on the way,” said Miller.

With the help of the Salvation Army, a full time job in retail is coming her way this Christmas.

“It helps the less fortunate like me, but to get back on their feet, and to have a home, and to realize what the holidays are all about again.”

Miller and all the other ringers get to see the generosity first-hand.

If you’d like to donate, Salvation Army kettles are set up all around town. You can also drop off donations at the Salvation Army’s location at 10291 McGregor Boulevard. The organization is still in need of gifts for children ages 9 to 12.