Some people stuffed change and dollar bills into red kettles. Others sent checks through the mail.

The end result of all those donations – both large and small – is that The Salvation Army will be able to do more to help people in need throughout Webster County.

The Salvation Army’s fundraising effort at the end of last year surpassed its goal of $126,200. The final tally shows that $143,000 was donated.

”It’s God putting it on people’s hearts to give,” said Capt. Linda McCormick, commanding officer of The Salvation Army in Fort Dodge.

The red kettles are the most visible part of the fundraising effort, but there is also an appeal via the mail. Those two efforts combined resulted in the bigger than expected receipt of $143,000.

It is very refreshing to see an organization dedicated to doing so much good come out ahead, and be able to do even more. In a lot of places, that’s not the case.

This development is a tribute to the generosity and caring of local residents. In Webster County, people habitually drop donations into the red kettles. And they’re not shy about sending in donations either.

McCormick has a couple of worthwhile ideas for new programs. She would like to start a prescription assistance plan to help people in need pay for their medicines.

She would also like to help people pay the fees associated with getting a proper photo identification card. Having a proper photo ID can help someone with a lot of things, including looking for a job.

Those programs will result from donations from lots of people. We hope the spirit of generosity that made them possible will continue long into the future.