While many of us associate the Christmas season with warm thoughts of happy gatherings with family and friends, there are many whose holiday spirits are dulled by the harsh realities of simply making ends meet.

The Salvation Army is making an extensive effort this holiday season to be a beacon of hope to those local families who desperately need a helping hand.

Traditionally, the Salvation Army's bell ringers in Johnston County help generate significant local support for programs community-wide. However, bell ringers continue to face restricted access in setting up their red kettles. And the Salvation Army this year faces additional challenges.

Donations are down largely because of the state of the local economy. Home foreclosures have reached unprecedented levels, job losses continue to increase, and prices for everyday essentials have been rising sharply. All of these factors contribute to an increase in the number of families seeking help from the Army during the Christmas season - and an increase in the cost of providing that help.

"With uncertainty over the economy and increasing job losses, our income is just not enough to meet the ever-growing needs," says Capt. Mark Hunter of the Salvation Army in Smithfield. "But it is important to care now about our neighbors right here in Johnston County who face the prospects of a most difficult Christmas season, struggling even to meet their most basic necessities. I'm confident our faithful friends and those new supporters who see the need will share generously and won't let them down."

"The Salvation Army will provide food, clothing and emergency assistance to those in real need in our community at Christmastime, as we've done for over 100 years in America," Hunter says. "And we'll find some toys for children who would otherwise go without too. What's Christmas to a child without at least one special gift? That would be really sad."

The Salvation Army will continue its dedication to doing the most good not only during the holiday season, but year round. Hunter adds: "Although our visibility is more heightened during the holidays, it is important for the community to know that the Salvation Army's programs are ongoing. We're not just going to hand out a blanket and a cup of coffee to a needy person. We want to get them back on their feet and moving into a productive and fulfilling role in life. Our motivation comes from faith in Jesus, and at the Salvation Army, we'll help them regain their hope and purpose by sharing the good news of God's love and offering support in any way we can."

For more information about Christmas programs and events planned by the Salvation Army, call Hunter at 919-934-9102.