Salvation Army organizations across southwestern Connecticut are struggling this season as residents' pockets get tighter.

Norwalk's Salvation Army is attempting to raise a minimum of $70,000 this year, but the charity is falling short. So far, Norwalk has raised about $38,000.

Officials believe higher gas prices and heating bills are causing some usual donators to hold back this season. Credit card use has also started eliminating the spare change that holiday shoppers typically carry around this time of year.

Major Ariel Guzman says if more money isn't raised, some needy families could be denied aid next year.