PRESS RELEASE
Salvation Army Cashes in on $250,000 Matching Gift
ROSEVILLE, Minn. – December 24, 2008 – Yesterday The Salvation Army challenged the Twin Cities community to raise a half-million dollars in one day to help offset Christmas Campaign losses of $2 million.
The community answered…times two.
“We didn't raise $500,000 - we raised $1 million,” said Major Darryl Leedom, Commander of the Twin Cities Salvation Army. “Words cannot describe how thankful we are right now.”
The record-breaking day was accomplished with the help of an anonymous donor who provided $250,000 in matching funds for every financial gift made by the Twin Cities community. Donations made online, via 800-SAL-ARMY and a Fox 9 phone bank reached nearly $300,000 – more than enough to receive the entire matching gift.
In addition, Cargill Inc. made a startling announcement late Tuesday: The Minnetonka-based agricultural company said it would contribute a full $500,000.
Cargill’s colossal donation brought Tuesday’s total to $1,046,535, an amount that will rise as kettle donations are counted today.
In addition to large corporate donations, several Twin Cities households gave astonishingly large contributions: two people phoned in $5,000 through 800-SAL-ARMY, while gifts of $6,500 and $2,000 arrived via the internet. Another person called the Fox 9 phone bank and pledged $20,000.
“You people know who you are,” said Leedom, adding that total online gifts reached more than $60,000. “May God bless you for helping The Salvation Army and its mission.”
So far The Salvation Army has raised $6.1 million of its $8.5 million Christmas Campaign goal. Last year at this time, the charity had raised $7 million.
“We need to keep this momentum alive,” Leedom said. “As we prepare to serve in 2009 we fully expect continued increases in need. It is imperative that we have all the means to extend compassionate care to hurting families.”
Donations may be made at red kettles through Wednesday, online, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY or mailing a check to 2445 Prior Ave N, Roseville MN 55313.
