MADISON, Wis. -- In the season of thanks and giving, the Salvation Army is thankful for some credit and debit card machines that are providing people with another way to give.

Next to the Salvation Army's red kettles, people might spot the Salvation Army's future of philanthropy -- debit or credit card machines.

"The Salvation Army has long been known for being a very conservative, old-fashioned nonprofit organization," said the Salvation Army's Ruth Ann Schoer. "But today we're going to come screaming into the 21st century."

For shoppers who don't carry loose change or cash, there could be another option.

"People do not carry cash anymore and all they have is credit cards and debit cards usually," said Schoer.

In Dane County, five kettle locations will offer credit and debit card options this season.

People would simply swipe their card, then confirm the last four digits, wait for their receipt and sign. No one else handles the credit card.

"I thought things are moving forward. It's a high tech world, so you know, why not?" said Bruce Weber, who made a $5 donation with his credit card. "I think plastic is the way it is now so why not get it going?"

"So this way people will be able to make contributions very easily," said Schoer. "And they will have a record of their contribution."

As far as preserving that warm feeling one can get from giving, Weber said the effect is the same.

"I think it's a good thing," said Weber.

The Salvation Army rents the card readers at $50 each for the season. The Salvation Army said there's about a 1.7 percent transaction fee the group pays for. The hope is to get larger donations from these card transactions.

In addition to West Towne Mall, shoppers will find card-friendly kettles at East Towne Mall, Hilldale Mall, Copps in Monona and Miller's in Verona.