TRAVERSE CITY, MI -- Father Fred, the Salvation Army and Goodwill are reporting strong numbers in the month of December.

“It’s at least tree times as healthy of a month in terms of proceeds as any other month,” said Marty Manty, Father Fred Foundation.  Greg Irwin, with the Salvation Army, agrees. “December is usually about 10-15% higher than other months as far as donations.”

So, why is there a spike in giving? Organizers say there are at least two reasons.

“One, they just got Christmas presents so they are giving us some of the stuff that they got. And also, for the tax right off purposes. I see that bring a spike in contributions,” Irwin said.

Whether it's from the heart, or simply for the tax break, local non-profit organizations did well in December and throughout 2010.

“For us, we've seen about 10% of an increase in support from the community this year and that is over last year. So, that significantly helps us to be able to support more people in the community,” said Ruth Blick, Goodwill.