The U.S. Department of Agriculture said that 13.3 percent of Ohio households more than 600,000 struggled to feed themselves last year.

That is the highest rate of food insecurity since the government started tracking hunger in 1995, Mallett reported.

A ringing bell kicked off the holiday season this week, as the Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign began.

The campaign raises funds to help those less fortunate.

Elbert Holmberg should know he has been a volunteer for 12 years.

"Every little bit helps," Elbert said.

Elbert, 86, said he enjoys it because he knows his efforts will help support the Christmas Cheer food and toys program.

A program, which is now supporting more families struggling with poverty.

 "We have had contact from many people who have said I used to donate to the Salvation Army or I've volunteered with you in the past and they are needing help now," said Alice Hohl.

The program helps people like Jeffrey Duff, who are either temporarily out of work or struggling to keep up with a mortgage.

"These are really hard times that people are going through," Duff said. "I really appreciate what they are doing for the community and for me."

The Salvation Army still needs Red Kettle volunteers.

If you or your family live in Franklin County, you can receive a basket of holiday meal supplies and a Christmas gift for each child 12 and younger, but you must sign up at any of our four locations by Dec. 4.

The four sign up locations are Salvation Army offices at 966 E Main St., 2300 W. Mound St., 760 Worthington Woods Blvd., and the McKendree United Methodist Church, 3330 Cleveland Ave.

Families can sign up at any location from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday.

Additional registration times will be held at all locations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 30; from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 1; from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 2 and Dec. 3; and from 10 a.m. until noon on Dec. 4.

No appointment is necessary but you must bring a photo ID and a birth certificate for every member of your household.

More Information:
Red Kettle Campaign Volunteer Information

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