Horses To Star As Salvation Army 'Bell Ringers' At New Lenox Walmart

NEW LENOX, IL — Hay, we have an idea. You might consider putting carrots on your shopping list this Saturday. Or sugar cubes. Or peppermints.

Some hoofed friends will greet shoppers outside the New Lenox Walmart Saturday, Dec. 7, as four-legged Salvation Army "bell ringers." The Will County Trail Riders will bring several of the horses in its club to greet customers. They'll accept donations to the nonprofit—and carrots or other snacks as tips, said Bruce Bochenek, president of the club.

The group of trail riders is now in its ninth year of partnering with The Salvation Army to raise funds, and last year set a new record of $1,870. They're hoping to beat that this year.

The group will have horses ranging from miniature, to ponies and horses. They'll be outside both doors of the New Lenox Walmart, 501 E. Lincoln Highway, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Bochenek said he loves putting the horses in the spotlight.

"This brings the horses out in the open with all kinds of people," he told Patch. "It makes the horses more endearing in their hearts, and that’s the part that I love the best."

Visitors can pet horses, take photos with them behind a cut-out, and feed them treats. Miniature horses will visit the store from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Horses will come in shifts throughout the day until 6 p.m. They'll be dressed for the occasion—wearing antlers and Christmas colors. People are encouraged to have their phones ready for photos. Bochenek and his wife's own Ben and Boomer will also make an appearance.

The horses stepping into the spotlight has given a big boost to fundraising efforts in past years, Bochenek said.

"We are the biggest draw that they have for The Salvation Army," he said.

Bochenek enjoys seeing people enjoy their equine moments.

"We’ve even had people go into Walmart, buy carrots and bring them back, and give them to us to give to the horses," he said.