PEORIA, Ill. – The annual Salvation Army Tree of Lights campaign began Monday night for two central Illinois communities who plan to work together this year.
At a tree lighting ceremony at Peoria’s Northwoods Mall, the Peoria and Pekin campaigns announced the start of its three month campaigns to raise funds for those in need.
Peoria Salvation Army Commander Major Heath Sells says while the campaigns will serve different needs catered to their communities, the partnership is a show of unity.
“The joint effort to recognize that the Salvation Army is here in the Tri-County with a presence, when people need help, the Salvation Army is here to respond 365 days a year,” Sells said.
Peoria’s campaign has set a goal of $2 million for this year, with Pekin seeking $168,000. Both campaigns received a significant boost to start off. Three large donations to Peoria’s campaign total $350,000, with Pekin receiving two donations totaling $30,000.
Pekin Board Chair Leonard Ealey says the partnership will help bring more eyes to their efforts.
“For example, tonight we’re right here, we get a chance to get exposure here, we get this out locally, more people will see it, and we’ll be better prepared to advertise it,” Ealey said.
Ealey says the funds will go towards helping homeless people in Pekin, as well as funding bills and food pantries. Sells says Peoria’s funds will go towards providing food, shelter, and other services to those struggling in poverty.
Comments