Monette American Legion provides Christmas baskets

Monette American Legion Post has been providing Christmas food boxes for select families since 1945 and it has become a valuable community tradition.

"We prepared food boxes for 14 families this year, along with 100 bags for senior citizens and 50 bags for children," Post Commander Larry Rolland said. "We delivered the food boxes on Saturday, Dec. 18. The deep appreciation for the gift showed in the faces of each recipient. Knowing it helps so many people have a better Christmas is what our effort is all about.

"So many people help us with this project. Our American Legion members contribute, Buffalo Island Central junior and senior high schools contribute canned goods, Frito-Lay donates chips, and individuals make donations."

"Christmas is all about giving and showing people their needs have not gone unnoticed," Rolland said. "We plan to keep this tradition going for years to come. We try to consider all ages of people, from senior citizens to children. We had a Santa party here on Saturday also, and children have a chance to visit with Santa. He gave all children a bag of candy when they left."