COEUR d’ALENE — It’s been challenging times for the Salvation Army in North Idaho. Donations have been down, while requests for help have been up.

“It’s been a tough year,” said Salvation Army Major Don Gilger.

But the Kroc Center’s “Flannel Fest” Red Kettle Gala had Gilger walking tall Tuesday night.

About 250 people packed the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn. Music was playing, people were smiling, holiday lights were bright and spirits were high.

“You can tell from looking around the room,” he said. “We’re looking forward to a very good night.”

With silent and live auctions attracting hot bidding wars, the goal was to clear $150,000.

“Our main focus tonight is the people we help,” Gilger said. “Everything raised tonight goes to help people.”

The premier gala in its second year was in “Idaho style,” with men and women wearing flannel shirts, including a number of folks wandering around in onesies.

“The Flannel Fest Red Kettle Gala is an important part of The Kroc’s strategy to raise the funds necessary to continue Kroc Community outreach throughout 2023,” according to its website.

Outreach includes clothing children, sheltering families, helping those escape addiction or abuse, and offering a safe place where people feel like they belong.

“Looking out for the well-being of your fellow man, kind of a big deal,” said economist Samuel Wolkenhauer, who was helping out with the live auction.

Numbers tell the story of the Salvation Army's impact in Kootenai County through the Kroc Center:

• 1,895 hours of free child care and youth development provided to working families.

• 1,270 nights of shelter given to families experiencing homelessness.

• 180 individuals saved from becoming homeless.

• 17,414 meals, school snacks and grocery gift cards.

• 5,806 art, fitness or swim classes for underprivileged children.

The Kroc ministry team hosted funerals, made end-of-life visits and offered spiritual support to 7,100 grieving individuals.

Gilger said the Salvation Army’s famous Red Kettles will be out after Thanksgiving and the goal is to raise $245,000, which goes to help people who live here.

Six team members from Northwest Specialty Hospital were wearing matching flannel shirts and having a great time.

All plan to volunteer to ring Red Kettle bells this holiday season.

“We wanted to come support this amazing event,” said Debbie Dlouhy.