If you have it to spare, The Salvation Army could use your help.

That is the message coming from the Morristown-based wing of the national charity, which said increased usage of services and a drop in donations has put the organization in the position of possibly having to eliminate some services. 

"For the first time in the last decade, The Salvation Army finds itself struggling to assist the less fortunate," wrote Yesmy Molina, development and public relations coordinator in a press release. "A drop in the economy means that families and individuals are now using The Salvation Army services they once supported. Without additional funds, the organization is almost unable to meet the needs of those coming to its door seeking help and hope."

Molina called the situation "devastating."

"If the lack of funds continues, the programs and services will soon vanish,” said Major Walter Droz, Morristown Commander Officer. 

The Salvation Army assists families and individuals with rent/mortgage, utility bills, medications, food, among other services. Annually, more than 920 families are helped in Morris County and it operates The Salvation Army Day Care Center, serving 75 low income families.

“Recently, we received a call from an unemployed single mother of two who was requesting assistance with her rent and utility bills,” Droz said. “She sounded desperate and explained she had received an eviction notice from the landlord and a shut off notice from the electric company. We struggle to find the funds to keep this family in their home with their basic needs. We almost had to say that we could not help. The thought of having to say 'no' to a family in despair is distressing.

“You can bring hope and a brighter tomorrow to the many families and individuals in need in Morris County by supporting The Salvation Army programs and services,” Droz said. “The Salvation Army is only a liaison between the good hearts like yours and the broken hearts in the Morris County community.”

Donations can be made in person at The Salvation Army's Morris County location in Morristown, or by calling 973-539-2700.