The Salvation Army kicks off its Red Kettle Campaign with the movie "Christmas Angel" at 6 p.m. today at Wehrenberg Cape West 14 Cine.

The movie centers on a group of children who wish for things for their families and find out an angel may be granting their requests, Salvation Army Capt. Ronnie Amick said.

The signature red kettles already are out around Cape Girardeau, but Amick said the campaign officially starts tonight.

Although he didn't want to reveal this year's goal before the official announcement, it is lower than last year's $362,000.

"We didn't make our goal last year, so we were able to move funds around from other sources and we just didn't need the same amount," Amick said of this year's objective.

As long as the weather stays good, Amick said, donations should be good.

"But one half day of rain sets us back almost two days, because when it rains or when it's bitterly cold, people just put their head down and go. But if it's just a little chilly or even cloudy, the donations seem to stay normal," Amick said. He added that even snow is OK, as long as it's not the wet variety.

The campaign runs until Dec. 24.

The agency will serve a Thanksgiving meal from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thanksgiving Day at the Salvation Army, 701 Good Hope St. Amick said between 1,500 and 2,000 people will be served.

rcampbell@semissourian.com

388-3639

Pertinent address:

701 Good Hope St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.

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12,000

The Salvation Army provided more than 12,000 meals last year.

5,500

Food boxes were distributed by the agency.

1,700

Nights of lodging were provided.

80

More than 80 kids were provided with a camp experience.

5,000

More than 5,000 clothing items have been distributed.

1,500

Over 1,500 furniture items distributed.

To donate to The Salvation Army, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY, 573-335-7000, mail your gift to 701 Good Hope St. Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, or make a donation online at donate.salvationarmyusa.org.