Local lawmakers have helped out the Salvation Army by taking their turns ringing bells at the famed Red Kettles. 

Among the state lawmakers who rang bells as part of the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign was Newtown Representative Mitch Bolinsky.  He was outside Stop & Shop on South Main Street on Friday.  He said Newtown again showed its generosity and that each donation will help local Newtown families in need. 

The Red Kettle Campaign collects donations from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve.

Danbury area state Representatives Jan Giegler, Steve Harding, and Dan Carter along with Senator Mike McLachlan rang bells for the Salvation Army outside of Walmart and helped the GOP caucus raise $41,000.  

Funds help provide holiday dinners, clothing and toys for families in need. Funding sometimes stretches beyond the holiday season and donations can provide aid for families, seniors and the homeless throughout the year.