Mayor Greg Nickels today announced that city employees have raised more than $1.1 million for local charities as part of the annual Combined Charities Campaign. The effort also drew pledges for 17,500 volunteer hours.

“In this time of global economic turmoil, when our city employees are being asked to sacrifice, they came through with remarkable acts of kindness,” said Nickels. “The money raised and volunteer honors donated reflect that we are a compassionate and caring city, now more than ever.”

City Light employees contributed nearly $173,000, the most ever by a single city department. Other leading departments were Seattle Public Utilities, Seattle Department of Transportation and the Seattle Police Department.

“I am grateful for the generosity of city employees and the care they have for the most vulnerable in our community,” said Superintendent Jorge Carrasco, who chaired this year’s drive. “Their contributions will make a noticeable difference in the lives of thousands of people.”

One out of every four city employees made a contribution.

“I support Combined Charities because I know the importance of giving and how essential it is to the success of the agencies involved,” said Tiva Jackson, a personnel specialist at Seattle City Light.

The campaign benefits more than 1,300 charitable organizations, including health and human service organizations, education and literacy programs, and environmental nonprofits.

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