PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) -- The Salvation Army is worried the storm and cleanup will slow last-minute holiday shoppers in the next few days. That means fewer people will walk by those iconic red kettles and the volunteers standing by collecting donations.
Tawny Cowen-Zanders, of the Salvation Army Greater Philadelphia, said it’s the busiest time of the year for the group as it works to raise funds to help feed and shelter families.
"We are concerned because what we bring in this year at this time helps not just at Christmas, but helps throughout the year as well," she said.
Cowen-Zanders said because of the impact of Covid-19, the organization has seen a sharp increase in the number of people coming to its doors and asking for help.
She said they rely on donations, especially at this time of year, to make it work.
"Think about us this weekend," Cowen-Zanders said. "Think about us over the next several days. Know that in general our kettles have been down because there’s just less foot traffic."
And, she said, the organization understands the public’s reluctance to get near the red kettles and the volunteers.
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"People are a little more anxious to approach somebody and to put money in, even though we’re keeping it safe," she explained. "We always wipe it down. But we understand that."
By going to an online red kettle option, she said, it’s safe and quick and will not only help fund holiday needs but also ongoing community assistance programs.
"We are encouraging individuals to go to our online presence," Cowen-Zanders said. "You can go to saphilly.org and you can donate virtually."
She said during this unprecedented crisis, they’re turning to extraordinary measures to support the Salvation Army’s mission.