Since the World Trade Center disaster, many volunteers have focused their attention to New York City needs. Those needs will continue for months to come. The Salvation Army has committed both workers and resources to meeting those critical needs.

In the meantime, the need also exists and grows in communities around the state.

"Now, more than ever, The Salvation Army needs additional volunteers who are willing to help coordinate its Red Kettle effort in the Brockport Service Unit area, or who would be willing to get volunteers for just one site, or simply to make a commitment to ring the bells to help raise the funds necessary to meet the needs of so many -- at home and at disaster sites," said Rick Damore, field representative for Monroe County service units.

The money volunteers raise locally will be used to assist local families and individuals facing difficult times. However, when a crisis or disaster occurs, such as the ones in New York and Washington, resources are also sent there to help. In New York City, for example, The Army's efforts include providing meals, supplies, and counseling support for the recovery workers, as well as assistance for families of victims.

In Monroe County, The Salvation Army runs programs through Rochester Area Services which services a large portion of the outlying areas. In smaller communities, The Army provides services though its six service unit areas. They are: Brockport, Churchville, Fairport, Hilton, Honeoye Falls and Scottsville. The Brockport Service Unit area also services the communities of Adams Basin, Clarkson, Spencerport. Churchville services Clifton and North Chili, Fairport services East Rochester, Hilton reaches out to Hamlin, Walker; Honeoye Falls services Industry, West Rush, Rush, Mendon and Ionia. Scottsville services Mumford.

"Whether your goal is to help families of victims in New York City or to provide a wholesome meal to a struggling family in your community, you can achieve it by volunteering near home with the Salvation Army," said Damore.

For more information about volunteering to be a coordinator, site organizer or a bell ringer, volunteers can call toll free at 1-877-733-06041 or they can go on-line to www.redkettles.org.