Some major Cleveland charities report holiday donations are down in 2016, and they're hoping charitable giving will make a strong finish during the final two weeks of the year.
Beau Hill with Cleveland's Salvation Army told News 5 the annual kettle drive is down by 20%, as the agency tries to meet its $722,000 goal for 2016.
Hill said the early cold weather is partly to blame, because kettle donations rely on heavy foot traffic in public places and shopping centers.
Donations to the Salvation Army can be made via its website.
The West Side Catholic Center also confirms that donations are down, and are critical toward its effort to feed and give clothing to thousands every year.
Jennifer Highfield said smaller donations have been caused by an economy that is still trying to make a recovery.
Highfield told News 5 she's hopingdonations through its websitewill help them reach their 2016 goal.
Providence House President Natalie Leek-Nelson said her agency is poised to help more than 400 children in the coming months.
Leek-Nelson said growing competition among a wide variety of outstanding Northeast Ohio charities has also made it tougher for organizations to reach their goals.
Holiday donations to the Providence House can also be made on its website, with all dollars going directly toward helping local children in need.
