From the Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army's bellringing effort in Batavia is crucial this year, announced Major Leonard Boynton, director of the local Salvation Army.
“We need to get as many bellringers as we possibly can due to dramatic increases in requests for assistance. With the slowing economy, greater numbers of individuals and families have been coming to The Salvation Army asking for food, rent and utilities assistance, prescriptions and emergency housing,” noted Boynton.
The emergency family assistance office is assisting record numbers of families. In September we assisted 200 families, up from 110 in September 2007. In October 266 families in October, up from 231 last year. Holiday assistance applications have already risen over the 200 mark, toward an expected 700 to 800 families, said Boynton.
“We need groups and individuals to help raise the funds necessary to assist these families in need,” said the Major.
To ring the bells, volunteers can call the local Salvation Army directly at 343-6284. They can also call The Red Kettle Center, 24/7 at 1-877-764-7259 or go on-line to www.redkettles.org.
“We need volunteers at all times at a variety of locations. Please call as soon as possible,” added Major Boynton. “We thank all the caring people of this community who never forget those less fortunate.”
