by Joe Nunziata

(December 6, 2016 – PELHAM, NY) Bells will ring this season! So keep your eye out for a lot of “Good Santas” the next two weekends as members of The Rotary Club of the Pelhams continue their 25-year tradition of ringing bells & setting up red kettles outside of DeCicco & Sons and the Train Station to help raise money for the local Salvation Army’s important programs to assist individuals and families in need.

Bob Rendon, Past President  & Chairman of the Rotary Club of the Pelhams’ Salvation Army Assistance Program explained, “The money our membership raises goes directly to the Salvation Army New Rochelle Corps Community Center at 22 Church Street in New Rochelle. This helps fuel the much needed funds to support four significant programs for people in Pelham, New Rochelle, and Mt. Vernon.”

According to Salvation Army New Rochelle Corps Captain Daniel Diakanwa:

“The Rotary and the Pelham community continue to be strong ambassadors of our cause.

Here are the programs that are supported with the generous contributions:

  1. Feeding Program. Over 700 needy people a month are fed meals at the Community Center.
  2. Food Pantry. Every Wednesday bags filled with groceries are distributed to the needy, satisfying over 500 people a month.
  3. Senior Program. 18 senior citizens meet every Wednesday from 11am to 1pm and are treated to educational workshops, games, entertainment, recreation and lunch.
  4. After School Program. 20 local students are assisted with their homework, and are provided with recreational opportunities and snacks from 3 to 6pm.”

Rotary President Dr. Kevin Falvey added,”In January, we’ll be celebrating the Rotary Club of the Pelham’s 70th Anniversary, so we’re asking our community to continue this tremendous partnership we’ve had among us, the Salvation Army, and Pelham”.

The hours of Bell Ringing are: At the Metro North Train: Fridays 12/9 & 12/16: 7 to 9am

At DeCicco & Sons: Saturdays 12/10 & 12/17: 9am to 3pm

For more info on the New Rochelle Salvation Army call 914-355-8137 or 914-632-0381.

For more info on the Rotary Club of the Pelhams, please visit us at pelhamrotary.com.

PHOTO: Rotary Club Members Jo Catalano & President Dr. Kevin Falvey

Note: Happy to add that the Club continued its Bell Ringing project for the Salvation Army every years since this article, and Dr. Falvey continues to be a lead bellringer. Thanks to the Pelham Community for its generosity.