Well, they lost a couple of hundred dollars from us too.
For the record, I am very tired of people with their hand out.
However, the Salvation Army helps a lot of people. It's a Christmas drive they've run for a long long time. It's essentially a Christmas tradition that I strongly support.
It's an example of giving, that reminds people that giving is good for the soul. Other charities most likely benefit from the Salvation Army reminding folks that it's time to think about the charities you support.
"For the record, I am very tired of people with their hand out."
Salvation Army,in general, helps out more than just the poor. They were right here helping us during our struggles after Ivan. They stayed and helped longer than the Red Cross. Many people they helped have never taken a hand-out in their lives. It is very humbling when you have to do so.
The limited amount that I am able to give goes to only two place - my local parish church (because of my trust in the wise stewardship of my pastor) and the Salvation Army. In both cases, I know that they know what to do with the money in the furtherance of The Lord's work.
Wal-Mart vs. Target? First, I'm a divorced single guy who hates to shop ANYWHERE, but I especially hate 40 acre stores since, when I do go to a store, I go there to get things I need - not to get exercise. And, yes, that does also mean that Lowe's and Home Depot are not on my list of favorites either.
Wal-Mart, however, has made a brilliant tactical move in their promise of dollar-for-dollar matching of whatever funds the Salvation Army collects in front of their stores. They could further their PR advantage immeasurably if, at the close of the Christmas season, they ask the S.A. how far short they came of their goal because of Target and, very publicly, made up the difference. The value of that kind of move would far exceed all the ads in the Sunday newspaper supplements across the country for a month.
Also.. the Salvation Army simply rings the bell and stands by the Red Kettle. They don't do as the Girl Scouts and other groups do....come up to you as you leave and ask for money. If people don't want to give, they don't have to nor do they have to say "no". That's why Target's decision was stupid. They come off as Scrooge.
My mom and I were outside of Furr's cafeteria the other day and were rather annoyed when a bell ringer clearly made his ringing louder to try to get our attention.
However, most of the time, I think the bell ringers do a good job. I like the sound....and I will make a point of giving some at the local Wal-Mart. I hope they have a way to keep tabs on people stealing from the kettles though...