Lawmakers Ring Bells for Salvation Army in Southeastern CT

Hartford – Senator Paul Formica (R-East Lyme), Representative Devin Carney (R-Old Saybrook), Representative Holly Cheeseman (R-East Lyme), and Representative Kathleen McCarty (R-Waterford) participated in the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign by ringing bells on Saturday December 9, 2017.

The state lawmakers collected hundreds of dollars in donations during their time ringing bells at the Old Saybrook Walmart, East Lyme Stop and Shop, and Waterford Walmart.

“I ring the bell for the Salvation Army in honor of my late wife,” said Sen. Formica. “At a very challenging time during her childhood, the Salvation Army stepped in and supported her family when they lost everything. Her firsthand experience always inspired me to support those who give so much for others. It was an honor to ring the bell to support future donations of clothing, food and shelter for those most in need.”

“There are many people in need across the state and the 23rd district is no exception,” said Rep. Carney. “I appreciate that all of the funds raised will go directly to help provide food, clothing, and essentials to local residents who need our support this holiday season.”

“I thank my constituents for making my first bell ringing event as their state representative a success!” said Rep. Cheeseman. “I look forward to volunteering again next year for this wonderful cause. The Salvation Army works so hard to ensure that everyone in the community is able to celebrate the holidays with comfort and joy. If you missed us at Stop and Shop on Saturday, please know that you can still donate to the Salvation Army with House and Senate Republicans by texting “CTREP” to 71777.”

“I very much appreciate how this time of year brings our community together, especially to aid those in need,” said Rep. McCarty. “Each person who donated to the Salvation Army kettle on Saturday has helped to provide food, clothing or other cold-weather necessities to families who are less fortunate. Thank you so much to the community for your continued support and generosity.”

The Salvation Army provides food, clothing, comfort and care to local residents as well as people in need across the United States. Assistance includes food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children.

Walmart will also be making a contribution to the Salvation Army on behalf of all participating legislators.

Donations can be made to the Salvation Army with House and Senate Republicans by texting “CTREP” to 71777.