As the annual Christmas Campaign comes to an end, The Salvation Army of Michigan City is happy to announce that its goal of raising $230,000 has been exceeded. Thanks to support from the community, The Salvation Army raised 107 percent of the 2023 campaign goal.

“We set a lofty goal this year, and we are so thankful to all of those who helped us not only meet this goal, but exceed it,” said Major Becky Simmons, who oversees The Salvation Army of Michigan City with her husband, Major Dale Simmons.

The Salvation Army attributes this higher campaign goal to an increase in requests for assistance. Over the past year, the non-profit reported 20 percent more grocery orders filled through the food pantry compared to the previous year. Simmons said this increase in requests is due to the post-pandemic economy and inflation as more Michigan City residents are struggling to make ends meet.

Christmas campaign funds, raised through Red Kettles and other donations, account for approximately one-third of the annual budget for The Salvation Army of Michigan City. In 2023, these funds helped provide holiday assistance to nearly 600 local families, including 1,369 children who received food and toys for Christmas. Other programs supported by the Christmas campaign include a food pantry, diaper bank, summer camp, utility assistance, free clothing room, weekend backpack feeding program, Pathway of Hope case management, and other support for the Michigan City community.

“All of the money raised through our Christmas campaign stays right here in Michigan City to meet the needs of people who are struggling with basic needs,” Simmons said. “We are here to provide emergency services to City residents, such as food, clothing, and warmth, but we’re also here to help break the cycle of poverty for our families through programs like Pathway of Hope and Bridges Out of Poverty.”

Sponsors of the 2023 Christmas Campaign include B&E Marine, Wilson Industrial, GAF, Harbour Trust & Investment Management Company, NIPSCO, General Insurance, Centier Bank, Members Advantage Credit Union, Horizon Bank, Woodruff & Sons, Michiana Insurance, Haas & Associates, Restore Dental Arts, the Herald-Dispatch, The Beacher, WIMS, and WEFM.

“We could not have achieved this goal without tremendous generosity from our community,” Simmons said. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support we see over the holidays and throughout the year.” Specifically, The Salvation Army acknowledges the 2023 Christmas Campaign Chairs, Gene and Linda Simmons; individuals and businesses who made financial donations; and the many individuals who spent countless hours volunteering. More information about The Salvation Army of Michigan City is available by calling (219) 874-6885 or by visiting www.samichigancity.org.