ROCKFORD (WIR) -- The Salvation Army – Winnebago County is pleased to report that they exceeded their 2011 Red Kettle goal of $185,000. A total of $194,462.13 was received in contributions thanks to those who donated at the kettle sites and to the volunteers who rang bells. Although this is a terrific outcome, donations by mail were down. “We have fallen short in our mail appeal which has left our over-all Christmas appeal slightly behind what we had hoped,” stated Major Randy Hellstrom, County Coordinator for The Salvation Army. “Even though we did not bring in as much, the $17,600 short fall did not effect any of our Christmas services or distributions. Where it will effect us is going forward throughout the year,” added Hellstrom.

The success of the Dick Goff Memorial Food for the Needy Drive enabled The Salvation Army to provide Christmas food boxes to 3,246 area households and will keep the Army’s Food Pantry going for the next several months. Additionally, a record-breaking 12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive, coupled with The Salvation Army Giving Tree, made it possible for 14,708 toys and stocking stuffers to be distributed to 4,020 children this Christmas.

Major Hellstrom concluded by saying, “ The assistance we are able to provide at Christmas and throughout the year is a direct reflection on the generosity of the residents of Winnebago County. So many freely volunteer their time and donate money, toys, and food. We are truly grateful as are the people we serve.”

Donation to The Salvation Army – Winnebago County are still being accepted and can be made through mail or online.