The Salvation Army, Maritime Division is partnering with The Children’s Clean Air Network                 to begin its IDLE-FREE education campaign this Earth Day.

“This is a wonderful opportunity. We can demonstrate leadership on the environment, save donor dollars, and clear the air for children, all with the turn of a key,” says Larry Martin, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army, Maritime Division. “Our goal is to save at least $5,000 dollars in fuel and cut hundreds of tons in CO2 annually.”

“Children are our most vulnerable clients, and we often provide services where needless vehicle exhaust can pose a threat to their health, and certainly their environment,” says Martin.

In addition to a division-wide education campaign for its officers, employees, volunteers and supporters, The Salvation Army will be promoting key children’s facilities as IDLE-FREE zones.

“We’ll be helping The Army promote places like Small Blessings Day Care in Moncton and Scotian Glen Camp near New Glasgow as IDLE-FREE kids facilities,” says Ron Zima, founder and Executive Director of The Children’s Clean Air Network.

“We partner with organizations that embrace the effort to go IDLE-FREE themselves. In addition to our images and messages from children, it’s leadership by example that we think really influences the public on this issue,” says Zima. “The Salvation Army is in a unique position to influence hundreds of officers, employees, volunteers, donors and corporate partners.”

For more on The Salvation Army, visit their Maritime Division web site here: www.salvationarmy.ca/maritime/

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