With the 132nd annual Red Kettle campaign underway, the longest-running philanthropic fundraiser of its kind, The Salvation Army is emphasizing its mission of serving those most vulnerable through this year's "Love Beyond" messaging. Love Beyond is also a symbol of the resources and programs that 25 million people rely on year-round when they turn to the nation's largest direct provider of social services for assistance.

"More than 2 million people rely on The Salvation Army during the holiday season alone, but the truth is our communities need help year-round" said Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder, National Commander of The Salvation Army.

The number of those in need of food, shelter and utilities assistance continues to rise as families face challenges ahead of the holidays. Latest numbers from the US Census Bureau show 91.8 million Americans have had difficulty paying for essential household expenses.

To learn more about how The Salvation Army meets human needs around the holidays and throughout the year, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org.