OTTUMWA, IOWA -- The branch of The Salvation Army in Ottumwa is thankful for the amount of giving by the community this year in their kettle campaign, but they need just a little more support to reach their goal this holiday season.

"Well, our goal for Christmas is $106,000 and we are at just about $74,000. So we are a little short, but I am confident with this weekend and everybody being out, getting all of their last minute Christmas shopping in, that we will have a good weekend. We are out all day Friday and a half day on Saturday, which is Christmas Eve," said Captain Oliver Knuth.

Captain Knuth says that the money donated during the campaign goes toward buying gifts for those in need this season, but also toward other programs for the needy throughout the year.

The Salvation Army also received many gifts for children in need this holiday season, thanks to the efforts of the Ottumwa Fire Department.

"We benefited from the fireman and the toys that they collected through Operation Sparky Claus. They helped us with a bunch of toys doing that. We had a bunch of major businesses support us as well. Cargill was a big supporter, we had a lot of toys from them. Giving is important not only now, but throughout the year with all the different programs and services we help out with," said Captain Knuth.

Captain Kunth wants to remind the community that if they want to make a tax deductable donation to The Salvation Army, you can do so by contacting the Ottumwa Corps Worship and Community Center at 641-682-7597. The center is located at 725 W. Second Street in downtown Ottumwa.