CEDAR RAPIDS - The holidays are getting closer and now the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign is up and running in Cedar Rapids.

This year has been a tough year for the community with job losses and flood recovery, but tough times are when the Salvation Army shines.

"We have served more people in this last year than ever in our history," said Lt. Michael Sjogren, Salvation Army.

The fundraising goal is up 9 percent this year to $640,000. That money makes up nearly half of the organization's annual operating budget. Lt. Michael Sjogren says between the economy and continual flood recovery, their role in the community is growing.

"A lot of gaps that aren't being met through other means. So we look to meet some of those gaps," said Sjogren.

One of the ways they help bridge gaps is through volunteers. On Monday, they've launched a new website to help make it the one stop shop of giving, both money, and your time. http://www.tsacedarrapids.org

With the holiday season coming up, many will be looking to help. The Salvation Army has several programs aimed at helping the community. For instance, 1,500 area households received a Christmas food box last year. Lt. Sjogren says people shouldn't be bashful about asking for help.

"We want to make them feel comfortable. We want to let them know it's okay to ask when there is a need," said Sjogren.

A need that this organization will help to meet, one red kettle at at time.