The Salvation Army kicked off it's annual Red Kettle drive this week.

Bell ringers will staff 30 sites in and around Texarkana, where they're raising their goal this year to meet the increased needs of the area.

The Texarkana Salvation Army is hoping to raise $150,000, that's about $23,000 more than last year.

Lieutenant Jimmy Parrish says while the Salvation Army is most visible at Christmas, they depend on the money all year long.

"People think we only do services at Christmas time, but everyday my shelter is open and 24 hours a day I feed people during the week, said Lt. Parrish.

The Red Kettle drive will run Mondays through Saturdays at area retailers through Christmas Eve.

The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program kicks off on Friday.