With cash apps and quick pay services, many folks aren't carrying cash. The Salvation Army of Greater Clevelandsaid it's making it challenging to collect donations in its iconic kettle campaign.
Major Daniel Alverio with the Collinwood Community Center said it gets harder every year to reel in cash.
“It’s tougher to raise a dollar in most areas. It’s tougher to raise funds," he said. “It’s a significant part of the American Christmas.”
The goal this year is to raise $743,000.
The money goes towards helping thousands of families and children in Northeast Ohio get presents and food during the holidays.
Major Thomas Applin with the Cleveland Salvation Army said donations have decreased the last two years, and he attributed that decline to folks not carrying cash.
To combat the challenge, they are launching a digital campaign.
“People can actually sign up with the Salvation Army to host a virtual kettle, where they get there friends and their families to donate to their virtual kettle," he said.
It's part of a peer-to-peer online campaign, with hopes of getting businesses involved.
The official launch of the kettle campaign is Black Friday.
