The weak economy is taking its toll on charities that are dealing with increased need and fewer donations.

One such organization facing that situation is the Salvation Army here in Wake County.

The situation is so tough that Salvation Army personnel tell MyNC they're openly worried about meeting the needs of those they service this holiday season.

For the last few months, donations have been off pace and as the economy vacillates, there are fears the situation will get worse as time draws near for the start of the organization’s annual Kettle drive.

For the Salvation Army, the kettle collections are vital.

“It brings in funds that help support our angel tree program,” said Robyn van den Berg of the Salvation Army.

The funds from those kettle donations provides needy families with clothing, toys and other holiday goods. And this year, van den Berg said, the faltering economy has increased that need.” We are helping 4500 kids this Christmas,” she explained.

Last year kettle donations helped 3700 children in need.

This year’s increase was unexpected.

“We’re surprised,” said van den Berg.  “We've seen a 20 to 30% increases this year. We are surprised at how big an increase it is.”

And the organization says it's also having trouble find folks to collect the kettle donations.

“We’re struggling to find kettle ringers,” she said. “We are trying to push as best we can to find people to volunteer with our kettles.

Not only do they have trouble getting volunteers, but they're also worried about filling the kettles.

“We're seeing fewer donations, few volunteers and an increase in need,” said van den Berg.

The army's also turning to less traditional ways of collecting funds this Christmas....

“There are kettles on-line, so you can donate on our website.

The kettle drive campaign will hold its kick-off on November 25th in downtown Raleigh and then you'll start seeing the kettle collectors at various locations around Wake County starting the day after Thanksgiving.