"The groups are asking that each church provide 'bell-ringers' from their congregations to collect funds after the morning service and present the donations to the local Salvation Army chapters," Christian Wire Service announced.

"A large Evangelical church in Boise, Idaho that began collecting funds for the Salvation Army last Sunday inspired this national campaign."

The Rev. Patrick Mahoney, director of the coalition, and the Rev. Rob Schenck stated: "It is essential that the Christian community stand with the Salvation Army in reaching the most needy of our communities during the Christmas season. It is our prayer that this effort can help offset the loss of nine million dollars from Target banning the bell-ringers."

That vanished $9 million represents 10 percent of the Salvation Army's usual Christmastime donations to its kettles, BusinessWeek magazine reported.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. today said it would match donations that shoppers drop in the Salvation Army's kettles at its retail outlets, up to $1 million.

"The company said the clock started Thursday on the match and runs through Christmas Eve," the Associated Press reported.

Wal-Mart spokeswoman Betsy Reithemeyer stated: "We hope our customers join us in donating what they can to benefit an organization that does so much in our communities to serve families in need. The Salvation Army red kettles and the bell ringers are truly a holiday tradition worth keeping."

Editor's note: