Reps. Sampson, Fusco and Sen. Markley Raise More Than $27,000 for Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign

Walmart Pledges to Match Donation Up to $25,000

SOUTHINGTON – State Representatives Rob Sampson (R-80), John Fusco (R-81) and Sen. Joe Markley (R-16) rang the bells for the Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Campaign at the Walmart in Southington on Monday, December 11^th. Together, they raised $27,490.25, which Walmart has pledged to match up to $25,000.

“We live in a community where neighbors look out for one another, and when one of us falls on hard times, we are there to support them,” said Rep. Sampson. “Each year I participate in this campaign and it is a humbling experience. I encourage my constituents to reach out to those in need this holiday season and to remember this is the season of giving. This is an overwhelmingly generous district and I am proud to represent it.”

“The turnout for our hour of bell ringing was amazing and I’m glad we were able to raise so much to help people right here in our community this holiday season,” Rep. Fusco said. “Christmas is the giving season and, once again, the people of Southington demonstrated their strong support for others by donating very generously.”

“Once again the people of Southington have exceeded all expectations for generosity,” Sen. Markley said. “The best part of this event is that the money stays in our community. I’d like to thank Walmart for again matching donations.”

The funds raised across the state will help the Salvation Army provide basic social services to those in need of food, shelter, clothing, and financial assistance. As a group, the Republican caucuses have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Salvation Army over the past several years. The Salvation Army responds to natural disasters such as wildfires and tornadoes, provides meals and toys to families in need, and conducts research and analyses regarding human needs around the country. They also provide adult rehabilitation, veteran services, elderly services, missing person searches, housing assistance, youth recreation, sponsorship, and support in the fight to end human trafficking.