Southington Community Services Set to Receive Salvation Army Kettle Donations

L to R: Rep. Rob Sampson, Walmart Director of Public Affairs & Government Relations, Christopher Buchanan; Salvation Army Captain Colette Masom; Sen. Joe Markley and Salvation Army Director of Public Relations, Jim Gordon.

Hartford, CT – State Senator Joe Markley (R-Southington) joined Representative Rob Sampson (R-Wolcott) and members of the Salvation Army in accepting a check from Walmart for this past years bell ringing event in Southington. Back in December, 2012 Sen. Markley and Rep. Sampson rang the bell for the Salvation Army, which partners with Southington’s Community Services. The legislators raised $24,720 in the one hour they rang the bell and Walmart responded by saying they would match the donations dollar for dollar.

Sampson and Markley more than double last year’s total of $12,285. The donations will go to Southington Community Services.

“I could not be more pleased with the outpouring of support from the community. Many families who are struggling were able to put food on the table because of their neighbor’s generosity,” said Sen. Markley.

Walmart officials said, “We would like to recognize the community of Southington for their success in raising nearly $25,000 for Southington Community Services. The large amount raised by the community with the help of Representative Rob Sampson and Senator Joe Markley is testament to the important role Southington Community Services plays in their community. Walmart is proud to match the $24,719.16 raised by the community to further support this deserving organization.”