Update!

As you read in my last post, we challenged the community to a half a million dollar possibility by matching a $250,000 pledge on December 23rd. I am thrilled to report that the community surpassed that goal and responded with a Million Dollar day!

Tuesday's online donations, checks, pledges and a Fox 9 phone bank topped out the scale at $296,535 - more than enough to receive the matching gift.

Then came the gift to make Tuesday Dec 23 a record breaker - a $500,000 contribution from Cargill.

This brings Tuesday's total to $1,046,535. This amazing number doesn't even include the money pouring into red kettles all day long. That number will likely not be calculated until the end of the day today which is the final day to donate to the kettles this season.

With this record breaking day The Salvation Army is closing in on the $8.5 million Christmas Campaign goal with a total of $6.1 million.

"We need to keep this momentum alive," says Major Darryl Leedom, Salvation Army Twin Cities Commander. "As we prepare to serve in 2009 we fully expect continued increases in need. It is imperative we have the means to extend compassionate care to hurting families."

Donations may be made at red kettles through Wednesday, online at www.thesalarmy.org, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY or mailing a check to 2445 Prior AVE N, Roseville MN 55313.