In 1991 the Allen County Scottish Rite Club, following the tenants set forth by Freemasonry, set forth to aid our community. After meeting with the teachers and administration of the Allen County school system it was decided that there were children in our community that, through no fault of their own, would not be experiencing the hope often associated with the holiday season. Our members began collecting funds and purchasing items so that each child could receive new school supplies and a gift certificate to purchase clothing from a local retailer. In the beginning we were able to invite 25 children to the party. The small items were placed in stockings and given to the kids at a party hosted at the school's cafeteria.
Fifteen years later the Allen County Scottish Rite Club continues this tradition as we have slowly grown our party to encompass 150 children. With gifts coming in from local businesses and support from the community and most of all the teachers and administration we will be giving each child a gift bag filled with school supplies, sock hats, socks and gloves, toothbrushes and toothpaste. We are also presenting gift certificates for Clothing or Food to each of our kids. The Little ones and their families will also enjoy our annual party now hosted in the Gym as we have long since outgrown the cafeteria of the school.
Unfortunately the need will not end here. We have been discussing with the schools how many children are classified as being in need this holiday season. Unfortunately that number is larger than the 150 we are able to help this year. As we move into the future our goal is to increase the number of children that we help each year until we are able to take care of them all. This year we are still 80 children short of reaching this goal. With the continued assistance of the schools, the teachers, the community, our members, the Louisville Consistory, you, and most of all God Almighty we will reach this goal.
For those who are able to help please do, as every penny that we receive goes directly to support this party. For those who are curious we invite you to attend and see what can be done in a rural community. For those of you who are Freemasons, come see what your brothers are doing, and find out how you can help, and for those who are not come see what the worlds oldest fraternity is all about.
Santa and the kids at the 2007 party.
