Knights set to collect money
for mentally challenged
Published Friday, May 16
By L.A. Story Houry
Staff Writer

The familiar red and yellow aprons will be seen around town today and Saturday as the local Knights of Columbus Council 8912, and members of the Region IV Mental Health/Mental Retardation Commission, come together for their annual candy drive fundraiser.

The Knights and other volunteers will have the familiar aprons and the canisters to collect money to aid the mentally challenged. This particular fundraiser has been conducted locally for about 25 years, according to the originator of the local event, Knights member Jack Hora.

Hora said that area residents have always been helpful to the cause. "The people of this community -- through their generosity -- has been able to help this facility [Timber Hills/Region IV] purchase vans so they can do their work," said Hora.

The Knights, and other fundraising volunteers, will be collecting donations at the entrances to Walmart, K-Mart, Kroger and at the intersection of Harper and Fulton. Hora explained that the local money collected is well utilized. For each dollar collected, Hora said, the State of Mississippi matches it with four dollars. Over the years, the local Knights have managed to garner approximately $500,000 dollars.

"Of all the money collected, 75 percent stays in Corinth and the other 25 percent goes to the state to use for the mentally challenged," said Hora. He went on to add later that the state money is used for Special Olympics.

Region IV Mental Health/Mental Retardation Commission Executive Director Charlie Spearman Sr. said that his region has been able to purchase a van a year -- they now have 25 vans to serve the 6,500 people on their caseload. Region IV, he explained, serves four counties -- Prentiss, Tishomingo, Tippah and Alcorn counties.

"Of all 15 regions, Region IV is able to provide wall-to-wall transportation services," said Spearman. "We are extremely grateful for the work of the Knights of Columbus. Without them, we would not be able to do what we do."

"I like the fact that 100 percent of the money is utilized for services and it doesn't go to other things like salaries," said Knights Chairman Tommy Thompson.

The Knights appear to enjoy their service to help Region IV and looked forward to the project each year. Local businesses have also been helpful.

Hora pointed out that Briggs Tobacco had made a sizable donation to the project this year.

"This has been a great experience," said Hora. "I am glad to have been a part of it." Knights of Columbus Grand Knight Steve Clapp said, "We only have to be out there. The people can give as little or as much as they want. It all adds up. I've even had people stop and go out of their way to give a $20 bill."

Nationally, the Knights of Columbus is 125 years old -- having been established in 1882. The organization was formed to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief and public relief works, according to information gathered from the organization's website.

Locally, Knights of Columbus Council 8912 boasts approximately 49 active members. Residents will see members collecting today and tomorrow at the entrances to Walmart, K-Mart, Kroger and at the intersection of Harper and Fulton.

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