The local unit of the Salvation Army’s “Christmas in July” effort to raise money for friends and neighbors in Newtown, July 13, was a “success,” Salvation Army Newtown/Bethel Unit President Glenn Nanavaty reflected on July 16.

The Salvation Army filled every available time slot for bell ringers, according to Mr Nanavaty. Ringers were stationed at Bagel Delight, Dunkin’ Donuts, Yankee Wine & Liquors, Bottle Stop Wine & Spirit Superstore, and Stop & Shop.

Mr Nanavaty expressed gratitude for the stores for allowing the ringers to spend time raising money for the cause at the locations, the volunteers, and all who donated.

The money raised will help pay for food, heat and utility bills, gas for cars to get to job interviews, medical expenses, and rent or mortgage payments for those who are struggling to make ends meet.

“We raised a grand total of $1,299.93 in that one day of kettle collections,” he said in an e-mail on July 13. “These funds will be used to provide school supplies for the fall as well as provide gift cards for the purchase of food, gas, and help those in need pay for expenses that they are having trouble meeting this summer. The Newtown Social Services department has informed us that energy bills still are one of the greatest needs from those that stop in for help.”