Salvation Army Bell Ringers––

Kettle Crew Rallies For Newtown Families

By Dottie Evans

Wait! Don’t just walk away. That man behind the Santa suit ringing the bell might be your next door neighbor. And he’s standing outside in the cold and rain for such a good cause. So, please put a penny (or a dollar) in his kettle. And God bless you!

During two weekends in early December, local volunteers of the Newtown Service Unit of the Salvation Army will be standing out in front of stores and businesses, ringing their bells on behalf of Newtown families in need.

All the proceeds from the two-week Salvation Army drive will be handed over to the Social Services Department to help Newtown families buy food and fuel, pay doctor and dentist bills, and buy clothing. In short, the donations help cover all those areas where special government programs do not fill the need.

“We’ve got a loyal, core group that always comes out to help, and I am so grateful to them. But we really need more volunteers. I have more slots to fill. It doesn’t have to be more than once or twice, and you can sign up anytime –– even at the last minute if you’re not sure of your schedule,” said Co-Chair Sylvia Poulin.

“We always do so well, because Newtown people are very generous,” she added.

During the 2003 season, the bell ringers will be standing out in front of Stop & Shop, Dunkin’ Donuts, Lexington Gardens, Pizza Palace, Yankee Discount Wine and Liquor, CVS, and Bagel Delight.

“I wish we could stand in front of the Big Y but, unfortunately, the store won’t allow it,” Ms Poulin said.

The schedule is as follows: Friday, December 12 and 19, 5 pm to 8 pm, at Pizza Palace, Yankee Discount Wine & Liquor, and Stop & Shop; Saturday, December 13 and 20, 8 am to noon, at Dunkin’ Donuts and Bagel Delight; Saturday, December 13 and 20, noon to 4 pm, at Lexington Gardens and CVS; and Saturday, December 13 and 20, 10 am to 4 pm, at Stop & Shop.

To join the bell ringers, call Sylvia Poulin at 426-6803, or Marie Sturdevant at 426-5957.