Tree of Lights Campaign 2024 Underway

PEORIA ( 25News Now ) -Both Pekin and Peoria kicked off the Salvation Army's Tree of Lights campaign Monday at Northwoods Mall with an ambitious goal: a combined $2.1 million.

The two trees were all lit up to get supporters ready for the season.

Peoria is aiming at $2 million while Pekin's goal is $168,000.

Donors had already chipped in though, ensuring both groups had already reached 18% of those seasonal goals.

This is the 36th year for the campaign.

"We have three shelters in the Tri-County area. We have services for veterans, a childcare, ongoing support for food and rental assistance. We have after school programs. services for children all the way up to those who are well into their 90′s," said Major Heath Sells, the Peoria area Commander for the Salvation Army.

You will still see those familiar red kettles and bell ringers at various storefronts, as well.

The campaign runs through the end of January,