Cleveland, OH – The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland has officially closed the books on its 2020 holiday campaign, marking it a success. In a year of increased needs, limited bell ringer availability and economic uncertainty, the citizens of Cuyahoga County found a way to rally support for The Salvation Army. Because of this strong community support, The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland hit 92% of their Red Kettle goal, despite thousands of residents being unemployed, a nationwide coin shortage, decreased foot traffic at retail stores and an increase in the number of households being impacted with sickness each day during the holidays.
“We extend a big thank you to our Greater Cleveland community for its continued support of our work and mission each holiday season. We are overwhelmed by their generosity, and it has provided a restoration of hope, faith, and a belief in others during this time of financial hardship. All of the funds raised throughout the red kettle campaign will help our friends and neighbors in need when they need it most,” stated Major Thomas Applin, Divisional Secretary of Greater Cleveland Area Services.
The organization collected $596,000 from the iconic red kettle campaign. These funds will be used to fund year-round programming, such as hot meals, after school learning, food pantry items, and utility assistance, at each of their five Corps Community Centers throughout the county.
“We could never achieve this level of community giving without the support of our local retailers who allow us to stand kettles outside their store locations during the holiday season. Drug Mart, Dave’s Markets, Giant Eagle along with many other National and local partners helped to ensure a successful campaign,” continued Applin.
In additional to the red kettle campaign, The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland provides toys and food to families in need through their Christmas assistance program. This year, 4,636 children were provided with toys for Christmas and 1,972 families were given food to enjoy a Christmas meal from The Salvation Army’s Christmas Assistance program. Over 9,000 toys were collected, from over 60 Local and National Corporate Partners, to hand out to kids this holiday season.
“Our Christmas Assistance Program is one of our most rewarding programs. We never want to see a child go without having a toy to unwrap at Christmas or a family go without a holiday meal. We are grateful for the support of all our corporate partners who provided hundreds of donated toys. Each is a valuable piece to ensure that no one gets forgotten at Christmas,” stated Applin.
While the worst of the pandemic could be coming to an end, The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland is prepared for a recovery that will take months, if not years to overcome. “Our doors will always be open to help our friends and neighbors in need. No matter what. We are part of this community, and will be here to assist anyone in need,” stated Applin.
For more information about The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland, or to request services, call 216-861-8185 or visit www.SalvationArmyCleveland.org.
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