“The support up here is unbelievable,” said Advisory Board Chairman of the local Salvation Army Ryan Adair.

The stats are in from the Salvation’s Army’s Kettle Campaign in December and Brookhaven shines as one of the most generous locations.

Just under McComb, Brookhaven gave $35,455.54 to the Salvation Army. McComb raised $45,600.01. Bell ringers were stationed at four locations in McComb. Brookhaven raised money in only one location.

“We only rang at one location here in Brookhaven and that is impressive,” said Adair.

After just 26 days of bell ringing, the Salvation Army raised a record breaking total of $105,850.55, exceeding last year’s $85,000 by 20.8 thousand dollars.

“Brookhaven has always been there for us supporting the mission of the Salvation Army in ‘Doing the Most Good’,” said Capt. Rick Boone. “I really appreciate this wonderful generous city, and we purpose to serve here faithfully during this year and years to come.”

Boone, Adair and local Salvation Army board member Beth Johnson expressed the desire to have more of a presence in Brookhaven. The local chapter, covering five counties, has its headquarters in McComb.

“We intend to do more here in the Brookhaven area,” commented Boone.

One of the local chapter’s goals is to open a store in Brookhaven. The organization needs a location and a store manager. For now they hope to have a drop-off location in Brookhaven for their McComb thrift store.

Currently, the Salvation Army visits the Lincoln County Department of Human Services once a week to assist with those needing food, shelter, clothing, rent, money for prescriptions, fire assistance, etc. The organization also picks up any items donated to the store.

“We really care. The Salvation Army really cares,” said Boone.

The Brookhaven Coordinator is Bobby Harris. He was recently awarded a plaque for his dedication in representing Brookhaven as a major force in obtaining the large sum.

Boone said the organization is interested in adding new members to the board, especially Brookhaven residents.

“This is a special place, Brookhaven,” said Boone.