Salvation Army Faces Coronavirus Kettle Crunch

The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to put a major dent in the charity's main fundraiser. KSNV's Denise Rosch reports.

(NBC News) — The Salvation Army is bracing for tough times.

COVID-19 is leading to lost jobs and a greater need.

In fact, the organization is predicting to serve up to 155% more people in 2020 with holiday assistance.

“We do things from rental assistance to utility assistance, to food assistance,” says Captain Anthony Barnes.

The number one fundraiser for the year, the Red Kettle Campaign, might be in trouble.

“Some of the stores we used to utilize don’t even exist anymore,” says Barnes. “There are certain places closed, or just re-opening now and they’re trying to figure out strategically what hours they may have available.”

Here’s another bizarre challenge this year. The pandemic is leading to a national coin shortage.

There’s less in-person spending, meaning spare change isn’t making it into circulation.

Read more here.