To the Editor:

Volunteers for the local unit of the Salvation Army were out during the day on Saturday, July 20, to ring the bells around town to raise funds to help Newtown. It was a beautiful day and our efforts raised almost $1,800. This special “Christmas in July” collection was done to help assist families with back-to-school necessities and also support Newtown families with emergency utilities coverage. The back-to-school supplies will go directly to families that the schools helped identify.

Overall, it was a successful day, and I want to express our thanks to the donors, the many faithful volunteers who rang, and the following local store owners and managers: Bagel Delight, Newtown General Store, Dunkin’ Donuts, Yankee Wine & Liquor, Bottle Stop, Walgreens, and Stop & Shop. I also want to express my deep gratitude to the committee that helped put it all together to make the day successful. We had many new “1st time ringers” on July 20 so we are hoping that trend continues into our next collection in December.

The local unit of the Salvation Army in partnership with the Newtown Human Services Department addresses emergency needs of Newtown residents. 90% of the money raised from this day stays in Newtown to help those in need of assistance. We also want to thank Natalie Griffith, director of the Newtown Human Services Department; Jacqueline Watson, caseworker; Corrine Ofgang, clinical manager; and Alyssa Cole, care navigator, for all that they do to make sure that the Salvation Army funds get to those in need.

If you are interested in helping out on the local committee or volunteering, please contact me, the local unit president, at gnanavaty7746@yahoo.com.

Thank You.

Glenn Nanavaty

President

Salvation Army – Newtown/Bethel Unit

Newtown