Real disappointing news out of St. Louis.
This pretty much says it all:
"We had no advanced notice. Quite frankly, the way we found out was through the news. For decades, Schnucks was a great partner, and now we're scrambling to figure out how we’re going to run Christmas this year."
Salvation Army Midland Division general secretary Phil Aho
Here's the rest of the story:
Shoppers entering Schnucks groceries will no longer see cheerful Girl Scouts hawking cookies or Salvation Army bell ringers seeking donations.
All solicitors are being banned at Schnucks stores throughout the region, according to a new policy by the Maryland Heights-based chain that went into effect Monday.
The official statement from Schnucks:
"Schnucks has always been and always will be committed to community service and supporting organizations, entities and individuals in their community activities. However, our primary obligation is servicing our customers by providing the most pleasant and convenient shopping environment. Because of this, we have decided to end the solicitation of our customers or distribution of written or other materials at our stores.”
So they are following the same path as Target, Barnes & Noble and Toys R Us.
Bowing to political correctness and/or left-wing pressure and/or threat of lawsuit, they are booting a holiday season staple.
Because they don't want to get into any discrimination claims or P/R issues with allowing some groups to fundraise and others not, they're taking the cheap and easy way out and just banning everyone.
Seriously? Grow some balls, Schnucks.
America was built on charity, community and love.
More and more, legit organizations working tirelessly to help and serve those less-fortunate are having their efforts hindered.
And Schnucks is now playing a part in that.
How sad.
How un-American.
Schnucks can make a big deal about how much they donate to local causes, including social/charity groups like The Salvation Army.
And those donations are appreciated.
But kicking the kettle to the curb is a very lame move.
For many, the kettle and bell are wonderful reminders of Christmas.
A visible reminder that people are in need.
An audible reminder that giving to others is important.
Some corporate check sent thru the mail does not have anywhere close to the same effect.
Why?
It's not about 1 big donation.
It's about dollar bills, quarters, dimes and nickels.
It's about little kiddos feeling so proud and helpful to be dropping pennies into the kettle.
It's about making it easy for everyone to be a part of the team.
It's about making everyone feel they are playing a role in making a difference.
It's about charity.
It's about community.
But it's obvious Schnucks doesn't care about any of that.
Bah Humbug.
Out for now.......
Matt