Target Opens New Channel for Salvation Army Support
The Salvation Army bell ringers were banned last year from Target stores with a no solicitation policy. Target, however, introduced the ''alternative'' method for support.
The Christmas season is here yet thousands of people are looking to a grim holiday after the recent hurricanes made an unwelcomed visit to the Gulf Coast this year. Christmas and all of its joys, however, will be stuffed inside the stockings of the affected families along with the needy across the nation as a new channel opens for donations and gift-giving.
Target and The Salvation Army announced their new partnership Monday for an online site that would send Santa to hurricane victims and needy families throughout the states. The Target/Salvation Army Wish List, slated to launch Nov. 25, will allow online visitors to purchase essential items as donations.
"This is an important partnership with Target to help the people of these areas begin to rebuild their lives," said Major George Hood, national community relations and development secretary for The Salvation Army, in a released statement. "With their assistance, we are enabling thousands of Gulf Coast families and people all across the country to begin that process."
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Over a month ago, Target approached The Salvation Army national headquarters with the idea of the wish list, according to Melissa Temme, public relations specialist for The Salvation Army. Because the devastation of the recent disasters would lead to a more difficult year for aid agencies and a greater number of families this Christmas, Target agreed to support The Salvation Army in helping poverty-stricken families.
"The Salvation Army has been vital in helping hurricane survivors through the recovery process while maintaining their steadfast commitment to strengthening local communities," said Laysha Ward, vice president community relations of Target, in a released statement. "We share their ongoing commitment to long-term preparedness, and are proud to partner with The Salvation Army as we strive to make a real difference in the lives of families across the country this holiday season."
At Target.com/salvationarmy, visitors can purchase clothing, household items, personal products and gift cards to be directed to families that have been struck by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and other disasters as well as those who undergo "personal disasters everyday," said Temme.
Financial donations can also be made to The Salvation Army's website through a direct link on the wish list website to help local communities.
The Salvation Army bell ringers were banned last year from Target stores with a no solicitation policy. Target, however, introduced the "alternative" method for support, Temme noted, as the number of people in need increased this year. The national kettle kick-off is scheduled for Thanksgiving Day during the nationally televised Dallas Cowboys half-time show.
