For the first time in more than a century, The Salvation Army started its nationwide Red Kettle Kickoff early this year.

Hempstead hosted the annual holiday fundraising campaign with social distancing protocols in place.

The Salvation Army says funds raised through the red kettles are at risk this year due to the coronavirus, but requests for services are at an all-time high.

Since the pandemic began, The Salvation Army Greater New York Division says it's provided more than six million meals.