Avon, CT – State Senator Kevin Witkos (R-Canton) and State Representative Tim LeGeyt (R-Avon, Canton) participated in the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign and collected $1534.14 by ringing bells for donations on Wednesday December 18 at the Walmart located at 255 W. Main Street Avon, CT. Walmart plans to match the donation, raising the total to $3068.28.
“This was a great event to bring attention to an important charity,” said Senator Witkos who brought a speaker and played Christmas music to get the attention of passersby. “I want to thank each and every person who stopped by. No donation is too small, and I was amazed to see the generosity of so many.”
“Every year, I continue to be encouraged by the genuine spirit of people who give so generously to help their neighbors in need,” said Representative LeGeyt of his fourth year partnering with the Salvation Army and Walmart. “It is an honor to volunteer with Senator Witkos and to partner with the Salvation Army for such a worthy cause. I’d like to thank everyone who supported the efforts of the Red Kettle Campaign throughout the holiday season. With the generous dollar-for-dollar match by Walmart, the money collected will go a long way to help those in need.”
Jim Gordon, Director of Marketing & Public Relations for the Salvation Army in Southern New England, applauded Witkos and LeGeyt for their efforts.
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“Bad weather and five less shopping days between Thanksgiving and Christmas have made this a very difficult Salvation Army Red Kettle season. We are very fortunate to have Senator Witkos and Representative LeGeyt join our bell ringing effort. They have braved the cold temperatures and stood their stands outside Walmart to help raise over $1500 this Christmas season.
“Walmart will match the funds collected by our Republican legislators and the money will help serve people in their local community. We are blessed to have the support of our legislators and we appreciate their time and wonderful effort,” said Gordon.
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The Red Kettle Campaign collects donations from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve. Funds raised go to local Salvation Army centers and help provide holiday dinners, clothing and toys for families in need. Funding sometimes stretches beyond the holiday season and donations can provide aid for families, seniors and the homeless throughout the year.
The Salvation Army operates 7,546 centers in communities across the United States. These include food distribution, disaster relief, rehabilitation centers, anti-human trafficking efforts, and a wealth of children's programs. The Red Kettle Campaign began in 1891 and raises millions of dollars each year during the holiday season.
For more information on the program visit: www.salvationarmyusa.org.
