November 12, 2008 Early start for Salvation Army kettle drive Play video

(Josh Brogadir, NECN) - A tightening of the purse strings for Americans has led the Salvation Army to begin its kettle drive a bit early this year -- two weeks early.

But just who is it that benefits from your donations?

"We're not talking about the loss of a Christmas bonus or no raise this year," said Major Ray Jackson of the Massachusetts Salvation Army. "A lot of these people are looking at no job."

The Massachusetts Salvation Army has set a goal to raise $3.3 million during this holiday season -- a figure which may have been, and may still be, in danger if not for the early start.

And if you have moved your holiday shopping to the internet, there is an online kettle by which you can donate.

NECN's Josh Brogadir has the story in the video player above.