The Salvation Army says it has set a new fundraising record with its 2012 Red Kettle Campaign during the holidays, raising $148.7 million.
The Alexandria, Va.-based charity saw an increase from $147.6 million in 2011. The new total represents a 4.7% increase in the past two years. In 2010, the campaign raised $142 million. The Red Kettle Campaign dates to 1891on San Francisco's wharf.
The donations support social services. The Salvation Army has been raising more money online in recent years. In 2012, it raised $2.1 million through "Online Red Kettles," up from $1.7 million in 2011. There was also an increase in online giving in November and December apart from the Red Kettle Campaign. Other donations totaled $21.2 million, a 17% increase from 2011.
By BRETT ZONGKER, Associated Press
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