Salvation Army holiday drives seek millions for local aid

The Salvation Army has launched its annual Tree of Lights campaign in Peoria and Pekin, seeking a combined $2.34 million for local services such as shelter and food; the drive has already raised $317,000 in Peoria and $31,000 in Pekin. Separate Angel Tree campaigns are also underway in Baton Rouge and Louisville, matching children and seniors or children from low-income families with donors who provide holiday gifts and other essentials. Baton Rouge expects to serve 2,500 children and seniors amid increased demand, while nearly 6,000 children in Louisville need adopters.