I agree with robomatice on this one. I do not have a problem with the Salvation Army or any other organization that is honest about what its doing. As far as I know they haven't been nailed for mis-allocation of funds or anything. I don't have to believe their doctrine to believe they are providing a valuable service. Lets not, however, confuse valuable service and business.

Wal-Mart uses the Salvation Army because its good advertising. Sure, Sally Anne benefits but Wal Mart benefits even more. And don't tell me its a win-win situation because it is the consumers who lose in the long term.