DICKINSON COUNTY SALVATION ARMY case manager Jennifer Witte, left, and Director Tara Blagec pack boxes of food in the pantry at 145 Roseland St. in Kingsford. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

KINGSFORD — Despite the many struggles that faced the Salvation Army’s 2020 Red Kettle Campaign season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, two local nonprofits still were able to generate funds needed to continue their mission in the new year.

The Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Dickinson County raised a total of $133,831.89.

“Although we had an estimated shortfall of $20,091 from last year’s campaign, we couldn’t be more appreciative considering all the obstacles,” Director Tara Blagec said.

With coronavirus restrictions in place, they had the challenges of fewer bell ringers that meant fewer kettles up during store hours and a lot fewer people shopping in person.

“We were unsure as to what to expect this year — the simple fear of the unknown,” Blagec said.

Even with those obstacles, the community still recognized the need and continued to support the campaign.

All the money raised during the Red Kettle Campaign stays in the county it originates.

Blagec noted that some of those who were past donors now are among those seeking assistance, which shows the pandemic’s true local impact.

“Seeing this change in such a short time has confirmed how important this year’s campaign was,” Blagec added.

The Dickinson County Salvation Army serves many individuals and families during the holidays as well as throughout the year. This year they had 561 individuals — 297 adults and 264 children — benefit from food baskets and 368 children receive Angel Tree assistance.

This campaign is a true testament of how the community continues to come together year after year for those in need.

“We witnessed the compassion and care community members have for one another,” she said. “The only way to do our best work right now is to work together for the greater good of those we are called to serve.”

She stressed that the fact that “it’s not you or me in this community — it’s we.”

The Dickinson County Salvation Army extends its appreciation to each of the donors, whether they provided money, gift cards or tangible items; hosted a kettle; rang bells; adopted from the Angel Tree program; coordinated an event that generated awareness of their needs; or chose the agency when honoring the memory of a loved one. They also thanked those who gave them words of encouragement, prayers or thought of them during such an uncertain time.

“Please know how grateful we are,” Blagec said. “It truly takes an ‘Army’ of support.”

For more information or to seek assistance, contact the Salvation Army at 906-779-5717.

The Salvation Army of Florence County received a total of $6,892.31, which was $1,000 more than last year.

“The response was just wonderful,” said Karen Wertanen, campaign coordinator. “Funds will be used locally to help those in need throughout 2021 — we know there are many families who will benefit.”

The Florence County Salvation Board relied on donations that were collected in the small counter kettles at local businesses within the county, as well as individuals who contributed to the new online site or the Great North Bank in Florence, Wis.

“With grateful hearts, the Florence County Salvation Army Board, wishes to acknowledge the generosity of residents, visitors, and businesses for their wonderful support during the 2020 campaign,” Wertanen added.

The board recognizes Pat’s Foods, Family Dollar, the Florence BP Station, Barb’s Café, Big Foot Liquors (formerly Riverside Liquors), Aurora BP and Liquor store, Tom and Joe’s and the 715 Ice Cream Shop for all having the small red kettles on their counters.

In addition, Big Foot Liquors hosted a very successful silent auction with proceeds given to the Salvation Army.

They also extended a special thanks to Florence Utilities, Edward’s Chevrolet and Erickson Jewelers for their donations and to all who made the extra effort to donate directly online or with the Great North Bank.