The local Knights of Columbus will once again be holding their annual Tootsie Roll drive this weekend April 23 to the 25th. Due to concerns from covid, the otherwise annual charity drive was not held in 2020.

As an organization founded by Irish Father Michael McGivney in the late 19th century as a means for members to help one another and also dispense aid to others, the local Emer-Quinn Council of the Knights of Columbus was founded in 1949 and is now approaching 72 years old.

As an organization founded to aid members and also help the broader society, the Knights of Columbus have a special devotion to those who suffer from cognitive disabilities and/or mental illness. The Tootsie Roll drive and its proceeds will be used to give aid to these groups.

““The Emer Quinn council has proudly completed this fundraiser for over 30 years and are looking forward to another successful year.” stated chairman Jerry Dirkes.

In line with the Tootsie Roll drive April 23rd through the 25th, , volunteers from the local Knights of Columbus will be at the Hansen’s IGA all three days giving away tootsie rolls to individuals that donate to help the intellectual disable people in Wisconsin.

As earlier stated, because of covid the council did not hold this event last year. But in 2019, all the KC councils in the state collected over $700,000. Councils throughout the state have gotten back over $500,000 that will assist the intellectually disabled in their area. Our local council received $1,594.04 which was given to the Special Education Department at the Stanley-Boyd School District. The State Council has distributed over $175,000 throughout the state through their grant applications. Organizations that work with People with Intellectual Disabilities are encouraged to submit an application for these funds. If interested in receiving some of these funds, ontact local KC council chairman Jerry Dirkes for information and grant application materials.

Chairman Jerry Dirkes giving Mayor Al Haas tootsie rolls for the mayors’ donation.