DECATUR - The Salvation Army's "Here For Others" campaign is within $350,000 of raising enough money to build a larger social services center and pay for other improvements.

Recent contributions boosting the campaign total to $4.65 million included one from the John Ullrich Foundation, created in 1989 by John R. Bumstead in memory of his great-grandfather. The foundation donates to religious, charitable, scientific, literary, educational and governmental entities in Coles, Douglas, Macon, Moultrie and Piatt counties.

Maj. Bob Gauthier said he could release no additional details about the donation but noted it has re-energized the effort as the campaign goes into its final days. "It could not have come at a better time," he said.

Salvation Army officials hope to reach $5 million by Christmas.

"We are confident our community will step up to help us complete our goal," said Larry W. Foster, campaign chairman and president of Foster Financial Services. "The Salvation Army has an impeccable record of serving the needs of the most disadvantaged in our community."

The Salvation Army of Decatur has provided food and clothing since 1888. Its services and programs address the needs of the homeless and needy in the area, as well as senior citizens, families, children and disaster victims.

Friday's announcement came about a month after the former social services center was demolished to make way for the new building on the northeast corner of Wood and Church streets as part of a $2.3 million project. The contractor, Christy-Foltz Inc., has built the foundation and erected three walls since then.

The new social services complex, to be framed in wood with a brick veneer, will contain 15,360 square feet and house a 30-bed shelter for homeless men on the upper level and social services offices and food pantry on the lower level.

The second phase of improvements will add a 200-seat multipurpose room, as well as office and classroom space, to the headquarters at 229 W. Main St. A third phase will further renovate that building.

Many naming opportunities remain for contributors to memorialize family members and friends. People and organizations wishing to contribute may contact Gauthier at 428-4672 or Foster at 429-9696.

Theresa Churchill can be reached at tchurchill@herald-review.com or 421-7978.