COLUMBUS (WCMH)– The Salvation Army bells are ringing and the kettles are collecting change in Central Ohio, but not as much as the organization was hoping.

“This very cold weather and the rain has really hurt contributions,” says Major Debra Ashcraft of the Central Ohio Salvation Army.

She says they’re currently $38,000 off pace of their goal of $725,000 for kettle bell donations, which they use throughout the year, not just during the holidays.

But former Ohio State running back and current Dallas Cowboys rookie star Ezekiel Elliott gave the company a boost on Sunday night when he dove into a giant kettle bell after scoring a touchdown on NBC’s Sunday Night Football.

In the 12 hours following, the Salvation Army says their online donations were up 61% nationwide.

“People know how important those contributions are, so they’re very proud that Zeke Elliott jumped in the kettle,” Ashcraft added.

To make a donation online, visit https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/CENTRALOH.