I'm SO not looking to stir up anything or start a debate here, but I know I'm not the only one on these boards who'd want to know this. I'm all for giving to charity, but it's important to know about the charities you're giving to and what they're doing with the money and what it is exactly you're supporting.

The Salvation Army wastes a lot of money on religious discrimination, which I for one would prefer not to contribute too. For example:

95 percent of the Salvation Army’s budget for children services came from the federal government, and was used, among other things, to conduct an anti-gay witch hunt in which employees were told to look for signs of homosexual activity in their colleagues, and to expose those colleagues so that they could be fired.

And that's just the tip of the iceburg. I'm all for giving generously to those in need, but it's good to do some homework first and make sure that's where your charity funds are actually going. To those in need. Don't be taken advantage of this holiday season. Donate direct to whatever charities of your choice that you trust. If that includes the Salvation Army, go for it, that's of course your choice too. I just think it's important to be informed.

http://irregulartimes.com/index.php/...v-army-review/
http://www.thejewishweek.com/news/ne...p3?artid=11687