House Republicans Raise Funds for Needy Connecticut Residents

HARTFORD — Several Republican legislators partnered with The Salvation Army this holiday season to help residents in need of meals, clothing and toys for children. Lawmakers rang collection bells outside of Walmart department stores throughout the state. Rep. Themis Klarides, for example, raised $160 while volunteering in Derby. Other participants were Reps. Rosa Rebimbas and David Labriola in Naugatuck. Also participating were Reps. Jason Perillo and Larry Miller in Shelton, Selim Noujaim in Waterbury, Tim LeGeyt in Avon, and Bill Hamzy in Bristol. All totalted, the Republican legislators raised more than $1,000. And here’s more good news: Walmart agreed to match the money the state representatives collected. Last year The Salvation Army collected $34 million in front of Walmart stores and Sam’s Club locations. Volunteers began collecting contributions on November 27th and will continue to do so through December 24th.

According to The Salvation Army, charitable contributions provide meals, clothing, and toys for families in need. Financial assistance also helps with basic necessities, along with seasonal aid. Salvation Army volunteers distribute gifts to those in need in hospitals, shelters and nursing homes, and that their shelters are open for sit-down meals through out the year. Noujaim, who represents Waterbury’s east end, said the money he collected would go to the Waterbury Association for Retarded Citizens.

Pictured above: Rep. Themis Klarides, left, helps count the money she collected outside the Walmart on New Haven Avenue in Derby.