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NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Kimberly George, Director of Marketing and Development
423-308-7715 or 423-503-1801
Date: July 8, 2008
The Salvation Army 'Rings In' Christmas In July
Chattanooga, TN – The Chattanooga Salvation Army begins ringing bells Wednesday, July 9th, at local Wal-Mart stores as it kicks off a special, two-week "Christmas in July" toy and fund drive. Just like in the winter cold, The Salvation Army will ring bells at red kettles in the summer heat to raise funds for those in need locally.
Will Hale, Salvation Army Director of Volunteer Services & Special Events, said, "Due to the current state of the economy, more and more people are coming to our social services ministry in need of food, utility payment assistance and other essentials." Mr. Hale went on to say, "Individuals who have worked their entire lives without ever asking for help are finding it impossible to provide for their families. We must start raising funds now to meet these emergency needs. We simply cannot wait until December."
Volunteers will ring "Christmas In July" bells at local Wal-Mart stores from 11:00 AM until 9:00 PM, Wednesday through Saturday, July 9–12 and 16–19. Toys donation boxes are also being placed in local businesses through the rest of July.
Will Hale said it's never too late to volunteer to ring a bell at a red Salvation Army kettle. "This is a wonderful opportunity for individuals, families and businesses to make a difference in the life of a needy neighbor. Men's, women's or youth groups may also want to 'adopt a day' for bell ringing at a local Wal-Mart." He also said, "Groups could even have friendly fund raising competitions while demonstrating the importance of helping the less fortunate even in the summer heat."
For information, contact Will Hale, Director of Volunteer Services & Special Events, with the Chattanooga Salvation Army at 800 McCallie Avenue. Call: (423) 756-1023 extension 1102 or email will_hale@uss.salvationarmy.org.
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