The 2020 Tree of Lights Kick Off
The annual Tree of Lights Campaign is officially underway for the 2020 Holiday Season. The Salvation Army has set a goal of $1.65 million this year to help provide shelter, food and other vital services for the families & individuals who are facing challenges throughout the greater Peoria area communities. During our kick-off event in the Northwoods Mall three large donations were presented, starting the campaign with $287,099 already.
“Our goal this year is all about what it takes to meet the needs of the community. The Salvation Army has continued to provide services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even throughout the pandemic. Everything we are able to do is because of the generous support of the Peoria area…because someone in the community believed in what we do and believed in the importance of helping those who need a hand up.”
- Chris Peterson of Country Companies & 2020 Tree of Lights Co-Chair
The first of the three starting donations was presented by the Peoria Women’s Auxiliary. Their services raised $105,000 to go toward the Tree of Lights Campaign. The women who are members of this auxiliary volunteer year-round for The Salvation Army to help first hand in making changes for others in need. Even though their largest annual fundraising event was cancelled due to COVID this year, the auxiliary's president, Rachel Braker, noted that they continued to fundraise through a personal mail campaign.
The second check was presented by a volunteer group led by Peoria Advisory Board member, Lynn Kunkle. He coordinated the Birdies for Good Golf Outing at Mt. Hawley Country Club for the third year. They raised $77,313 to help provide food and shelter for those in need.
Finally, the last check was presented by Echelon, a local chapter of young professionals committed to raising funds for The Salvation Army throughout the year. Members Andrew Grove and Stan Cohen presented their $23,000 contribution to the Tree of Lights campaign, which came as a result of their fundraising efforts throughout the year.
“The need has always been there; this year it happens to be greater. The money raised through The Salvation Army Tree of Lights Campaign helps people in our community who have no place to live; who can’t afford food; or who have been out of work because of the pandemic and are struggling to make ends meet. This could be the homeless man you see on the streets or a family in your neighborhood impacted by COVID and the shutdowns.”
- Major Heath Sells, officer & local leadership of The Peoria Citadel
Want to give your support to the Tree of Lights campaign today? Just visit our Online Red Kettle to give safely & directly to the Peoria Salvation Army:
Click Here to See the New Online Red Kettle
For additional information, contact Kathy Anderson, Peoria Development Director, at (309) 339-3849