The directors of the Good Samaritan Ministry of Carlinville will be in charge of the Salvation Army Bellringing fundraiser which begins on November 21st and continues on weekends until Christmas.

Money placed in a bellringer's kettle during the Christmas season or donations sent to the Salvation Army in St. Louis and marked "for Carlinville, IL" will be used in the Carlinville area to help needy families with rent, utility bills assistance, short term lodging, healthcare, medicine and transportation costs. Approximately 200 families were helped last year.

Margaret Duncan, Carlinville Salvation Army Fund Allocation Director, says she is only able to help about one-half of the people who have a need and would like to see larger monetary contributions to the "Tree of Lights" campaign. This years goal is $30,000.

Bellringers are needed and anyone who would like to volunteer in Carlinville can call 217-854-7362 or 217-854-5124.