Representatives from The Salvation Army updated Lycoming County commissioners on their Christmas season programs, fundraising progress and volunteer needs.

A Salvation Army presenter said the kettle campaign has raised $32,000 to date toward a $125,000 goal and noted there are about three weeks remaining to reach the target. The presenter outlined several countywide programs: red kettles, an Angel Tree/adopt-a-family program (partnering with Toys for Tots), a sheets program serving roughly 80 children in cooperation with a local partner, and a Festival of Trees fundraiser that the presenter said typically raises an additional $15,000–$20,000.

The presenters explained their social-service intake: they had taken 485 applications for toys and food assistance and have closed new applications while maintaining an emergency waiting list; last year they served roughly 500–600 families through combined programs. The Festival of Trees, now in its 23rd year in the local area, will be auctioned Dec. 12 at the Genetti (bidding registration 5:30–7 p.m.), and local businesses including Walmart and Sam’s Club were identified as prominent kettle or donation sites.

Commissioners thanked the Salvation Army and discussed participating in fundraising activities, including a lighthearted suggestion for a "commissioners kettle" contest to raise funds.

The presenters encouraged commissioners and community members to call (570) 407-1926 to sign up as bell ringers or volunteers and reaffirmed the organization’s long presence in Lycoming County dating back to the 19th century.