AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The clock is ticking for you to donate to the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign.
The campaign wraps up on Tuesday -- just one day before Christmas.
With just a few days left of bell ringing, the Salvation Army of Augusta is $50,000 short of its $235,000 goal.
They say this is their biggest campaign of the year to help fund programs for the community, including operations at the Center of Hope which shelters more than 80 people a night and serves about 200 meals a day.
"The Red Kettle Campaign is vital to our ability to help those in need throughout the year," said Area Commander of the Salvation Army of Augusta Jonathan Raymer.
Volunteers like Calvin Johnson say it's all worth it knowing he's helping his community.
"I just love doing it. At this time of year, it is really great being out, just watching people's faces, you know. And this is a time of love and celebration," said Johnson.
The Salvation Army says they depend on the Red Kettle Campaign to help fund programs that serve the community year-round.
They say being able to fund the shelter at the Center of Hope is crucial for the Augusta community.
Director of Development Derek Dugan said: "The Salvation Army in Augusta is the only emergency shelter in Augusta. It's the only shelter for women, it's the only shelter for families, and it's the only emergency shelter for men."
Organizers say this year's donations have been harder to come by - not just with the Salvation Army - but across the board with the 30 other nonprofits they work with.
They blame Hurricane Helene for the shortcomings.
"A lot of people had a lot of unexpected expenses associated with recovery and may not be donating as much as previously they had done in previous years," said Dugan.
That's why the Salvation Army is calling on you to help make a difference for the people in Augusta who need it the most.
It's a task Johnson says he's going to do one ring at a time.
"It is local. It is going to help those who are less fortunate than a lot of us who may be in need. So, this is it's just great being out here to be able to support that effort," said Johnson.
The Salvation Army says the money raised stays in Augusta and will also benefit programs to keep people off the street like assistance with food, paying utilities and navigating social services for employment opportunities.
"We are calling on our community to help us bridge the gap in these final days. Together, we can make a difference for those who rely on our services," said Raymer.
Red Kettles can be found at Bass Pro, Belk, Food Lion, Hobby Lobby, Kroger, Sam's Club and Walmart locations in Augusta, Evans, Grovetown, Hephzibah, North Augusta, Thomson and Waynesboro.