Cash or credit? Salvation Army's red kettles now accept both

 

BOISE -- For years, generous donors have been dropping coins and cash into the Salvation Army's red kettle.

But this year, your friendly bell ringer may ask if you're using cash or credit?

This was tested in a few cities last year and deemed a success, so this year it's going nationwide.

You can now use your credit or debit card at the Salvation Army kettle.

It's a sound synonymous with the holidays -- that ringing reminder to help those less fortunate. 

But this year, there's a new twist on that old tradition.

"At four of our locations this year, we'll actually have credit card machines.  We'll be able to take direct credit card donations from our customers," said Capt John Stennett, Salvation Army.

Credit, debit or, of course, cash!  In test markets last year, cities that used the card readers saw a jump in donations.  In Colorado Springs -- a $64,000 increase.  It turns out, we're more generous when using plastic.

"I'm not sure I'm supposed to let that secret out, but yes, that's what we're hoping for.  People normally will give a larger donation on their credit card," said Stennett.

But will they use their credit cards?

"I have people come by and say 'I don't have change today' or 'I don't have cash...I have a credit card.  I wish I had change and not a credit card, so it's a good idea," said Phillippe Lucianna, Salvation Army bell ringer.

"I think that's a wonderful idea," said a patron.
"Would you ever use that?" asked NewsChannel 7.
"Yes I would.  I'd save my dollars next time," she replied.

But not everyone agrees.

"I don't feel comfortable doing that I don't think.  I'd prefer to put the money in there and it's going to a good cause, I understand that, but I would not feel comfortable putting it on a credit card," said Betty Adams.

The credit card readers started being placed at Walmart locations last Friday.  The Salvation Army admits, so far, no one has used them.

After Thanksgiving there will be four locations accepting credit cards -- the Walmarts on State Street, Overland Road and Fairview Avenue.  Plus, the kettle at the Boise Towne Square Mall.