The Salvation Army-Greenwich Service Unit hits its goal

Jan. 17—GREENWICH — The Salvation Army-Greenwich Service Unit recently wrapped up its 2023 "Love Beyond Christmas" Red Kettle Campaign. Thanks to last-minute contributions from generous community members and groups, the $12,000 goal was met.

"Thank you to all who helped make the annual campaign successful," Local Commander Janis Hunter said. "Christ's love was demonstrated throughout this holiday season in the communities of Greenwich, North Fairfield and New Haven."

Funds raised will help income-eligible people in the local area with utility bills and supply food baskets, hygiene kits, pet food and other household necessities throughout the year.

Organizations that took turns ringing the bell at the Greenwich Dollar General included the FFA from South Central High School. "What an mazing group of 35 community-minded students who braved the cold to help raise much-needed funds," Hunter said.

The North Fairfield Assembly of God, as well as the Baptist, Methodist and Ripley churches in Greenwich each took an entire Friday or Saturday to staff the kettle.

In addition, a number of individuals and small family groups signed up for hour-long shifts of kettle duty.

Due to the severe winter storm over Christmas, bell ringing had to be canceled. Members of the Tri-Community Fire Department, as well as several local citizens, were scheduled to work that weekend. Their willingness to volunteer was much appreciated.

Greenwich businesses hosting countertop kettles were Mickey Mart, Old Village Hardware, Buck's Hardware, Iron Skillet, Burky's Farm Market, East of Chicago, The Beauty Shop, Dr. Rick Pettit, Painted Cowgirl, 224 Nutrition and Oma's Belgium Waffles. The Ripley Church and the Greenwich Methodist Church were also sponsors. In North Fairfield, the Assembly of God and the American Legion assisted. Rexel and the FriendShip Kitchen, both in New Haven, rounded out the list of little kettle locations.

Rexel additionally held its yearly "taxable items" drive, filling numerous boxes with donated household cleaning supplies, paper products and toiletries.

According to Treasurer Mary Oney, "We welcome and need your financial support beyond the Christmas season. Please remember that only those checks made out to the Greenwich Salvation Army count toward our local fundraising efforts."

Checks may be mailed to the Salvation Army-Greenwich Service Unit, 4130 Edwards Road, Greenwich, Ohio 44837. It is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, and contributions are deductible for Federal Income Tax Purposes to the extent of the law.

If you or someone you know in our service area needs assistance, call 419-752-2769 and leave a message requesting an appointment. Volunteers are generally available at the Ripley Church office on Monday afternoons and Thursday mornings, except holidays.

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.