Citizens Bank Foundation grants $250,000 to Massachusetts Salvation Army
Partnership helped organization raise more than $3.2 million through 2007 Kettle CampaignBOSTON (February 21, 2008) - For the second consecutive year, the Citizens Bank Foundation has donated $250,000 to the Massachusetts Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign. Citizens Bank partnered with the Salvation Army to raise much-needed funds to support the growing demand for emergency services and programs the Salvation Army provides to local individuals and families 365 days a year. Citizens pledged to match donations up to $250,000 collected at specially-marked green kettles located in cities and towns across the state.
The green kettles, which were available from November 23 through December 24, 2007, generated more than $545,000 in contributions. Including Citizens’ $250,000 match, the Salvation Army raised $3.2 million from the 2007 campaign.
“The success of this partnership is a testament to the generosity and kindness of companies such as Citizens Bank and the good people of Massachusetts who opened their hearts and wallets to assist their neighbors in need,” said Maj. William Bode of the Massachusetts Salvation Army. “The demand for emergency shelter, food, clothing and fuel is on the rise and the donation from the Citizens Bank Foundation and money collected in the red and green kettles will be used to fund these critical services. On behalf of our clients and the staff at the Salvation Army, I would like to thank everyone who supported our Kettle Campaign.”
The Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign is the organization’s signature fundraising initiative. Money raised helps fund seasonal and year-round programs including after-school activities, emergency and utility assistance and food programs. Last year’s funds provided 250,000 food vouchers, articles of clothing and new toys for disadvantaged individuals, families and children in Massachusetts.
“The Salvation Army’s vital programs and services assist thousands of seniors, children, individuals and families across the commonwealth every day of the year,” said Robert E. Smyth, president, Citizens Bank, Massachusetts. “As a company committed to supporting the communities where our customers and colleagues live and work, we are proud of this partnership and the funds and awareness it brings to the Kettle Campaign.”
To help the Salvation Army promote the Kettle Campaign, Citizens featured information about the matching program on a billboard at Route 128 in Braintree, Mass. and on signs at kettle locations across the commonwealth. In addition, Citizens Bank executives including Smyth served as celebrity bell ringers in Boston’s Downtown Crossing to help raise awareness to the important programs and services the Kettle Campaign funds.
About the Citizens Bank Foundation
Citizens Bank Foundation is a subsidiary of the Citizens Charitable Foundation, which is a charitable contributions vehicle of Citizens Financial Group, Inc., RBS Citizens, N.A. and Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania. The foundation’s support is focused on housing, community development and basic human needs.
About the Salvation Army
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. The Massachusetts Salvation Army Web site is www.salvationarmy-ma.org.
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