DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) -- Christmas is less than 50 days away and the Salvation Army in Decatur had a ribbon cutting Wednesday to kick off their holiday campaign.

The bell ringers and their red kettles are a familiar sight outside of businesses around the holiday season, but Major Susan Summit with Decatur's Salvation Army said they're important too. This campaign raises more than a third of their annual funds during the holiday season.

So, not only does the money feed families and give gifts to those in need during the holidays, it helps them serve the community all year long.

Summit has been with the Salvation Army for more than forty Christmas seasons, and she's grateful for every one.

"It means to me that we are able to offer hope to families in need and offer it with joy. It's my 42

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