JANESVILLE, Wis. -- More Rock County families are turning to the Salvation Army for help during the current difficult economic times, but there is concern the organization might not make its fundraising goal this year in order to help those needy families.

"Our food pantry is 40 percent up from last year so we're seeing a greater need and we need to meet that need with more income," said Capt. Kirk Schuetz. "And expenses are higher."

The Christmas season is over, but there are still a few weeks left before the Salvation Army ends their Red Kettle campaign. Holiday donations make up nearly half of the organization's annual cash budget -- making it critical they hit their mark this season, officials said.

"We count on that," said Capt. Carolyn Schuetz. "It's not just to do the Christmas good work, it's also to do the work throughout the year. And we know that that's the most important part."

The Rock County chapter of the Salvation Army is still $18,000 short. If the goal is not met, officials said there will be cutbacks in the coming year, WISC-TV reported.

"We will have to tighten our belt," said Schuetz. "We don't want to have to, we're getting low on staff as it is but we would have to evaluate and see what has to be cut."

Jan. 15 is the last day for fundraising and officials said they have faith the community will come through.

"I think that they're all going to pull together because I think we know that this is a time when we need to be helping our neighbors and we need to be looking out for each other," said Schuetz.

The organization is accepting donations and volunteers to help with more fundraising.