Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Salvation Army administrators say the annual Red Kettle campaign set a record of $130 million in donations last year despite the recession.

Red Kettle donations were up 10 percent from 2007 and represented biggest one-year jump in since 1997, yet came during a holiday season when many retailers suffered financially.

The Salvation Army attributes the increase to partnerships with Wal-Mart and the National Hockey League, its use of "cashless kettles" that accepted credit card donations, and a text messaging service that allowed cell phone users to contribute via their phone bills.

The Salvation Army said Tuesday that donations helped nearly 29 million Americans, including nearly 5 million who received holiday assistance with rent, clothing and toys.