Twin Cities Salvation Army Surpasses Christmas Campaign Goal Thanks to Record Matching Gift

Despite the rough economy, the Twin Cities community dug deep enough into their pockets during the 2009 Christmas season to find something extra for The Salvation Army.

With thousands of checks still to be deposited, the Twin Cities Salvation Army is expecting to reach more than $9 million in Christmas Campaign donations, well above its goal of $8.7 million.

Exceeding the goal was made possible through the largest matching gift in Twin Cities Salvation Army history: $1.25 million. The money, given by three anonymous donors, was used to triple-match every donation made in the Twin Cities Dec. 22–23. This effort raised about $730,000, more than $400,000 of which was gathered via kettles – a new two-day record.

“Unprecedented,” said Major Darryl Leedom, commander of the Twin Cities Salvation Army. “The success of our Christmas Campaign rested squarely on the amount of matching donations we received in those two days, and the Twin Cities community delivered.”

Following the successful Christmas season, The Salvation Army now begins a new wave of fundraising to meet the increasing needs of the Twin Cities poor. Another $20 million must be raised this year to meet the organization’s $29 million yearlong budget. Most of these funds are gathered from public donations given via mailings, the internet and other means. Additional funds come from corporate and foundation gifts.