It's that time of the year -- cheerful carols, brightly decorated trees, shopping and time with family.

It's also that time when seasonal charities are out in full force, and few holiday charity symbols are as recognizable as the bright red kettle of the Salvation Army. This year's kettles, however, haven't been as full as in years past.

Tracie Parker, the human resources manager of the Salvation Army of Augusta, said that the organization has seen a decrease of $9,000 compared to what was raised by this point during Thanksgiving of last year. Red kettle fundraising began Nov. 7.

The decrease in donations is not the only concern.

"We also have a significant increase in need," Ms. Parker said, referring to people now struggling to make ends meet. There is also a need for more volunteers, not just to help with the bell ringing, but to help with other aspects of charitable operations, she said.

In Aiken, Salvation Army officials are also challenged, but optimistic that things will pick up.

For the past 11/2 weeks, the red kettle campaign has been operating in 13 locations throughout Aiken and Barnwell counties, and Capt. Angie Repass of the Salvation Army in Aiken County, said she expects donations to improve.

"I do believe there will be a drop in people donating this year," Capt. Repass said. "But I don't think it will be as much as everyone thinks because Christmas is the time of giving, and I think people will remember that and will do the best they can."

Last year, the Aiken County Salvation Army raised $70,000 from the red kettles -- money that stayed in the area.

The red kettle "reminds us that even though we are blessed, there are people out there who are in need," Capt. Repass said. "This is just an easy way for people to respond to that need in their own community."

Staff Writer Jonathan Overstreet contributed to this report.