To the Editor:
It is that time of year when I, with an overflowing heart, report on the success of The Salvation Army – Port Clinton Service Unit’s 2018 Holiday Season Programs. Each day, as we hear in the media and news, there are events happening that have a way of putting life’s perspectives in order.
Words cannot describe the pride and admiration I feel living in Ottawa County, where I am blessed to have the opportunity to recount the numerous interactions I have with both those in need and those who donate. It is because of the caring and generous residents in our County that I am able to report that, although we did not meet the $70,000 monetary Red Kettle Goal, we have exceeded our giving capacity in so many extra ways!!
Besides the $66,971 we raised in the Red Kettles alone, the countless toys, bikes, coats, hats, gloves, socks, boots and mittens that were donated this year, far surpassed previous years. This is not only amazing, but is another record for The Salvation Army Christmas Campaign in Ottawa County!
If not for our 496 Bell ringing volunteers and their 1,416 hours of bell ringing at our Red Kettle sites at Walmart, Kroger’s, Friendship Food Store, Millers Market and Community Market in Oak Harbor, this would not have been possible. We also were able to distribute more than 7,600 toys to over 1,227 children (with the help of 72 volunteers and 440 volunteer hours), along with hats, gloves, mittens, coats, socks, as well as raise $17,581 at our 15th Annual Tree A Rama Charity Auction!
This success is made possible by the multitude of volunteers and community supporters in Ottawa County that come together, during this Christmas season and put others first and “Make a Difference” in our Community and ultimately in our World. “The World is changed by your Example, not by Your Opinion” is our motto!
It is, indubitably, an honor to be able to say I work and live in Ottawa County and am able to serve those in need through The Salvation Army Port Clinton Service Unit. I am truly blessed.
Director Maureen M. Saponari, The Salvation Army – Port Clinton Service Unit Serving Ottawa County
0 Comments