FORT WAYNE, Ind (WFFT) - The sound of bells outside of shops usually means one thing, the Salvation Army is raising money for those in need.

Here in Fort Wayne, Major Geffory Crowell says it may not seem like it, but the need is there.

He estimates the organization helped over 10,000 people in 2018.

Those who are struggling need your help again this year.

"Our services are directly related to the amount of money we’re able to raise at Christmas Time," Crowell said. "It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year."

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle’s have been seeing less action this year. Holiday donations have slowed down.

"Our goal for this year is is $240,000, of which we are at about 34% right now," Crowell said.

That means the organization needs to raise nearly $160,000 dollars in 12 days. This goal was scaled back from last year’s because last year’s goal wasn’t met. This means fewer people received less help last year.

Crowell explained, "We have to create out budgets with reality in mind. We spent less money, we had to spend less money. We had to do less things, less services, provide less for the community even though we provided a great deal for the community."

If they don't meet their goal this year, fewer people go without money for rent, fewer families will experience joy on Christmas morning, and fewer kids are prepared for school.

Howeverm Crowell believes there's still time for them to reach that goal of $240,000.

"I know that they people of Fort Wayne are behind us and stand with us, and we believe they want to support us," Crowell said. "So, that’s why we’re asking for their support even more in these last ten days. We have to ring."

If you want to help, there’s still time.

You can drop in donations in the kettles. Mail in donations, and you can even use Google or Apple Pay on the spot to donate and that money all stays local.