There’s a lot of talk around The Salvation Army about kids this time of year. Our legendary Christmas programs include a number of ways for do gooders to care for kids whose families can’t afford Christmas. But did you know that there are several programs which provide Christmas cheer for senior citizens who have few people in their lives left to care for their needs this time of year?

Like all giving to The Salvation Army, it’s all about local. That’s one of many things people like best about us.

When you put money in the kettle or respond to a fundraising email or letter, your gift stays in your community to care for people who struggling to make ends meet.

Unless you live in Seattle, you probably haven’t seen The Salvation Army latest advertising campaign. Instead of billboards, bus bench signs and mall kiosks asking you to financially support people struggling with hunger, addiction or homelessness, the ads are targeted specifically to people in crisis.

Wildfires continue to blaze in Washington state. Officials estimate that more than 400 square miles have already burned, four times the size of Seattle. The Salvation Army is still working in the impacted area to provide immediate relief now, and will stay in the area for as long as needed.

It’s time to start thinking about what you’re going to wear on Friday, June 6 for National Donut Day. I’d recommend something with an elastic waistband. Just a thought.

This week, Salvation Army teams were deployed to provide immediate relief to those impacted by the mudslides in Snohomish County, WA. The Salvation Army sent a mobile canteen (feeding unit) to provide meals and water to the first responders at the disaster. In the future, The Salvation Army will assist in the restoration efforts.

A very generous – and anonymous – Seattle Seahawks season ticket holder has offered two Super Bowl XLVIII (48) tickets, valued at $800 each, to benefit The Salvation Army! The tickets are being auctioned off on EBay and the proceeds will be donated to fund the good work of the Army in the Pacific Northwest.

One of the most touching examples of Christmas caring is happening right now in Seattle, Washington: their “Toy and Joy” event! It’s designed to give moms and dads who are struggling to make ends meet somewhere to ‘shop’ for Christmas. It doesn’t cost a thing but gives parents some choices and dignity: two things often in short supply when times are tough.