WISN-TV Channel 12 and the Salvation Army successfully raised more than $50,000 during a recent phone bank.
The money will buy school supplies for Milwaukee Public School (MPS) students who can’t afford those basic necessities. Pledges from the “Class Act” phone banks on Aug. 12 and 13 make it possible for at least three MPS schools to get needed supplies. The schools selected to receive the supplies are Hi-Mount Community School, Auer Avenue School, and Lancaster School.
“This project was heartwarming and inspiring. The incredible generosity of WISN 12 viewers exceeded our expectations,” said Jan Wade, president and general manager of WISN-TV, which is a media partner of BizTimes. “Donations came in from every corner of our viewing area, demonstrating once again what a generous community we serve. WISN 12 viewers and the Salvation Army know the importance of education and getting off to a good start. We are more than grateful to all of our donors who took the time to give and help fill this very important need.”
The Salvation Army had initially set a goal of raising $25,000.
“We are grateful to the viewers of WISN 12 and the entire WISN 12 family for helping make our Back to School Collection Drive so successful. This generosity will help hundreds of Milwaukee Public School children begin the school year with confidence and have the supplies they need to do well in school,” said Major Roger Ross, Salvation Army Milwaukee County commander.
MPS Superintendent Gregory Thornton challenged school administrators to open their hearts – and wallets – to join the effort. In three days, principals and administrators donated $4,675.
