Last year, the Salvation Army Farmington Hills Corps brought Thanksgiving food baskets to 125 local families in need.

This year, that number more than doubled, Capt. Marlys Anderson said. 

"We have seen a growing need over the last five years, more than ever," the Farmington Hills resident added.

Volunteers adopt families for Christmas through the agency, which also provides holiday parties for needy seniors and children, assistance with food, rent and utility bills. The Salvation Army also provides a toy shop for parents whose families were not adopted, so they can provide their children with Christmas gifts, Anderson said. 

More volunteers are needed to adopt families and help with holiday events, as well as the Salvation Army's traditional "red kettle" drive. Anderson said 90 percent of those who ring bells around town are paid, but every volunteer allows them to spend more money on services.

Bell ringers in this area are expected to raise $250,000, which helps people in Oakland County communities, including Farmington, Farmington Hills, Novi, Southfield and South Lyon. Anderson said each is asked to take a two-hour shift, anytime between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Groups from schools and service clubs are welcome; children should be accompanied by an adult. 

But no one should let their volunteer spirit fade away when the holidays are over, Anderson said. 

"All year round, we need help with our bread line, answering phones, cleaning, our youth programs," she said. "There's all those opportunities and then some."

The adopt-a-family distribution begins early next week, with a detailed plan that ensures quality control. Anderson said it takes "an orchestra of people, and it does take some organization to keep it all going."

To help the Salvation Army, call 248-477-1153. You can also sign up to ring bells online, visit registertoring.com/salmich/