Salvation Army Receives $1 million from Campbell's Soup
The $1 million check will benefit the Army's programs to feed kids and also raise awareness to its Christmas Red Kettle fundraising campaign.
The Salvation Army received a $1 million check from Campbell Soup Company last week to help feed hungry children and raise awareness to the Army’s annual Red Kettle Drive.
"While millions of children look forward to the holiday season, millions more are simply looking to find their next meal. Hunger in America is something that continues to be a major issue, and is something that we should all remember as we take part in this season of giving," Larry McWilliams, President of Campbell U.S.A., said in a press release.
Campbell donated $10,000 on behalf of 100 celebrities, who were named honorary Campbell Kids as part of Campbell Kids’ 100th birthday celebration, totaling $1 million. Celebrities on the list included musicians Tim McGraw and Amy Grant, actor Peter Graves, NBC Today's weatherman Al Roker, Olympic gold medalist figure skater Sarah Hughes, New York Giants' defensive end Michael Strahan, Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback Donovan McNabb, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, and baseball pitcher and five time Cy Young award winner Randy Johnson.
Commissioner W. Todd Bassett, national commander of the Salvation Army, told KYW News Radio, that after the decision by Target stores to banish the Army's kettles, the Campbell's Soup donation is a big help.
"There are many other places that have stepped up to the plate and said, 'If they're going to turn you out, we will accept you.' And we've got great trust in the American public,” Bassett said.
Mervyn’s, formerly owned by Target Corp., agreed as a privately-owned company to make an exception to its no solicitation policy for The Salvation Army last week.
The Red Kettle drive, which received around $90 million last year, will run through Christmas Eve.
