This season, a portion of the red kettle funds will help displaced hurricane victims handle relocation costs.

"Every penny we raise goes directly into helping the local people," Weightman said. "We don't use any of the funds for administrative costs or office fees ... we're just helping people who are down on their luck. We make very good use of the donations."

Penn State's Salvation Army gave part of its budget to Katrina victims when the storm struck, and Weightman said some of this season's donations will fund programs cut for disaster relief.

"There are so many people who don't have the basic necessities that we take for granted," Miller (senior-rehabilitation services) said. "This year, there are a lot of people who came here from the South who really need our help."

Because of the hurricane, Wal-Mart stores nationally are letting The Salvation Army ring its bells twice as long as usual, until Christmas Eve.

"We have been very fortunate," said Rosemary Musandipa (graduate-educational administration). "We're going to be able to help a lot of people and give something to kids who don't have very much."

Weightman said donations might also be used to help State College residents pay their electricity bills and purchase new school supplies for children.

In addition the Benner Pike and North Atherton Street Wal-Mart stores, donations are also being accepted outside Moyer Jewelers, 100 E. College Ave.

Katherine Myers (sophomore-biology) said she considers soliciting money for the needy an important community service.

"We're helping out people in the community who need a hand," Myers said.

She added that bell ringing is an "interesting" experience and a way for Christians to get involved in community outreach.

Despite the often-cold weather and long hours, Miller said the Red Kettle Campaign is a worthwhile endeavor.

"Ringing the bells is an amazing experience because you get to talk to so many people," he said. "It's very gratifying."

Club members are encouraging individuals to donate the next time they spot a red kettle and a Salvation Army bell-ringer.

"It's just the average person going out there and giving who really makes a difference," Weightman said.