Salvation Army raises $3.3K but is still accepting challenge donations

Rick Vernon, a Newton business man and longtime Cardinal, challenged the community to raise money for the local Salvation Army and in return he will match up to $15,000, and so far donors have raised more than $3,300 for the organization. But he stressed that there is still time left to donate.

By the end of Christmas the challenge will have concluded. Vernon started the challenge in November as a way to raise money for a good cause, harkening back to the community challenge he started last year when he called on residents to make donations to the school district’s deficit lunch balance.

Similarly, Vernon has pledged a matching donation, but this time up to $15,000.

Captain Tim North stressed the holiday season is an impactful time for families, and thus a very important time for the Salvation Army to receive donations.

“This is a critical time of year for the Salvation Army,” North said in a statement to Newton News last week. “Needs increase during the holidays and the colder months. Community generosity ensures that we can continue serving those who rely on us throughout the year.”

For anyone wanting to contribute to the Salvation Army community challenge, checks should be made payable to the “Salvation Army of Newton” with a memo noting the community challenge. Checks can be dropped off in-person at the army headquarters at 301 N. Second Ave. E. in Newton.

Others may also donate by visiting www.salarmynewton.org or www.salvationarmyusa.org/ia/newton/n-2nd-avenue-e-corps/ and acknowledge it is for the challenge.