A week-long fundraiser for one non-profit organization culminates in today’s event in Jefferson. 

Salvation Army of Greene County is hosting a “Christmas in July” event at The Gardens Assisted Living today from 2-4pm. The Gardens Executive Director Tara Quirk says there will be an ice cream social with musical entertainment with Second Chair Brass from Ames and attendees are to bring their own seating. She tells Raccoon Valley Radio it was an easy decision to partner with the local Salvation Army organization to have the event at The Gardens.

“We were honored when they came and asked us. I think it’s a great way to bring everybody together. The community comes together and helps all of our Greene County families as much as they can.”   

Bill Monroe is with the Salvation Army of Greene County and says they will have their iconic Red Kettles at The Gardens for free will donations. He points out the money that they raise and have raised throughout the week at Jefferson Hy-Vee and Fareway, majority stays in Greene County. He describes examples of using the funds to assist individuals who face short-term needs.

“Many times it’s rent assistance, helping with utilities, maybe a car expense here or there. Mostly just things to help people get through their daily lives here in the county.”    

Local Pastor Dan Cunningham is also with the Salvation Army of Greene County and says the close to $7,000 that they had from their holiday fundraiser was depleted this past May and so they encourage everyone to come this afternoon and donate. Individuals who are not able to attend today’s event can donate anytime to the Salvation Army of Greene County at Home State Bank.