Tilton Walmart makes Chem-Free party donation

FRANKLIN — Franklin High School has received a $1,150 donation from Walmart to be used toward the school's Chem-Free After Prom party.

"We are so fortunate to receive this valued support from such a recognized corporation," said Cheryl Joyce, Chem-Free Co-Chair. "In our state and nation's current substance misuse epidemic and resulting crisis situation, it is clear that Wal-Mart values our efforts to keep our students safe and chemical-free."

Additional support for the party has been provided by local businesses and organizations, including Franklin Savings Bank, the Franklin Mayor's Drug Task Force, Franklin Youth Initiative (FYI), Tilton Trailer Rentals and Franklin Storage Co.

Each year, hundreds of volunteer hours are committed year-round to the Chem-Free effort: conducting student surveys, fundraising, event planning, and hosting the celebration. Numerous fundraisers are held throughout the year, including 50/50 raffles at sporting events, hosting a craft fair, completing iPad and lottery ticket raffles, holding a huge indoor yard sale, coordinating restaurant fund raisers, car washes, and more. All are dedicated to providing safe and drug-free activities for Franklin High School juniors and seniors after their May prom.

Donated and raised funds are used to rent Smitty's Cinema from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and to provide entertainment during that time. Some events have included tie-dying, henna tattoos, inflatable Twister, recently-released movies, refreshments, a photo booth, basketball & volleyball, and more.

Each year, the Committee needs to raise $5,000 to ensure students have this safe, after-prom activity.

Those interested in contributing money, or time or talent, for the party should contact Denise Sharlow at 455-6687, or Cheryl Joyce, Committee co-chair, at fhschemfree@gmail.com.

Sarah Stanley, of Franklin Savings Bank and Franklin Chem Free volunteer; Brandon Hall, Tilton Walmart assistant manager; Stacey Collins, Walmart personnel coordinator; and Denise Sharlow, a Franklin Chem Free volunteer stand together after the Tilton Walmart donated $1,150 toward the Chem-Free After Prom party for juniors and seniors at Franklin High School. (Courtesy photo)