Salvation Army achieves holiday campaign goal

The Salvation Army in Springfield met its goal for the annual red kettle campaign.

The nonprofit's holiday campaign, featuring red buckets and bell ringers outside of stores, brought in more than $1 million, according to a news release issued yesterday.

Just before Christmas, the Red Kettle Love Has an Army Campaign was at roughly 60% of its goal, according to past reporting.

The campaign goal was met, in part, because of business partnerships.

Pinegar Advantage, operator of vehicle dealerships, in December held a campaign that contributed $15,000 in funds. Additionally, an anonymous donor contributed $5,000 through the campaign, according to past reporting.

Bass Pro Shops matched $25,000 in donations made to the nonprofit’s signature red kettles at the retailer's flagship store, 621 W. Sunshine St., through Christmas Eve.

The release indicates the red kettle campaign goal ultimately was met through an additional donation in an undisclosed amount from Bass Pro, as well as Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co., which offered to match Bass Pro up to $25,000.

"The support of Pinegar Advantage, Bass Pro Shops and Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co. exemplifies the community spirit of the Ozarks, and we greatly appreciate their generosity in increasing the match to meet the ever-increasing needs of the people we serve,” said Maj. Jon Augenstein, leader of the Springfield chapter of The Salvation Army, in the release. “Without partners and friends like these, we would not be able move forward in providing for others."

A faith-based poverty relief organization, the Salvation Army provides emergency social services, homeless housing, food pantries and other assistance locally.