Target Stores is taking the extreme action, claiming the bell ringing gives the Salvation Army an unfair advantage.

It has some folks calling for a nationwide boycott of Target.

Target's decision is a hit in the gut for the folks who are trying to fill the stomachs of the hungry. It is a loss of nearly $200,000 in fundraising.

"We can't argue with a retailer," said Maj. John Chamness of the Salvation Army. "They have their own rights as a business to do what they want."

The Salvation Army may not want to argue, but consumers can. There's a call for Target to be the target of a nationwide boycott.

KOMO 4 News asked Salvation Army volunteer Thomas Hamlin, "You think Target should be boycotted?" He said, "I would certainly consider it."

Hamlin and his wife Nancy were helping to feed the homeless Thursday and couldn't believe it when they heard what Target had done.

Nancy Hamlin said, "I was saying they're messing with a Christmas holiday tradition."

Thomas agreed, "To limit an organization that is so well known and has such a good reputation is really disappointing." He's asked, "Does Grinch come to mind?" 'Yeah, you know it really does."

Target Stores explained it has a long-standing corporate policy of no solicitation at its stores. It was making an exception for the Salvation Army.

But other charities were saying "me too." So, Target Stores says to make it fair to everyone, it's going to ban everyone. No bell ringers.

Target says it is a giving corporation donating $2 million a week to schools and communities nationwide.

But when it comes to the bright red entrance to Target, you will not see the bright red kettles and bright smiles of Salvation Army bell ringers.

The Salvation Army hopes other stores will continue their generosity and hopes individuals will continue to donate.

For More Information:

www.salvationarmynw.org or 1-800-SAL-ARMY

www.target.com