The 48th annual Christopher Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive was a success again this year.
The group does an intersection collection with the popular sweet treat to raise funds that go to students with intellectual disabilities to enhance those programs in local schools.
Program director Mike Shapkoff said this year, the volunteers collected a total of $4,316.68 to go to school programs at Christopher, Sesser-Valier and Zeigler-Royalton. It was the fourth highest collection in the 48-year history of the drive. Each school received a check to be used in special education classes based on the amount generated in each community.
Of the total collected, $3,810 was distributed after the state level share was taken for administration and insurance on the event. Held in mid-September, the drive uses local school staff and volunteers to collect funds to help kids in these special needs areas. According to Shapkoff, the effort would not be possible without the generosity of the public and the help of those who support the worthy effort on behalf of our youngsters. The Knights of Columbus greatly appreciate the kindness of their supporters.
