The Knights of Columbus is a charity organisation of Military Veterans who give back to the community. The Eastern Townships local Knights are located in Cowansville and assume responsibility for all communities who do not have their own branch of Knights. Usually at this time of year the Knights would be starting to collect donations for their food drive. “We do about 320 baskets for families in need” stated Lawrence Cotton. However, this year is different because of the pandemic. “We can’t deliver baskets and food door to door because we don’t want the risk of infection for the Knights or the families” explained Monsieur Cotton.

Many families and people in the region rely on food baskets and donations in order to support themselves. So, thanks to the quick thinking of The Knights of Columbus the food baskets will be replaced by food coupons and vouchers. “Our goal is to get $50,000 in coupons this year” said Monsieur Cotton. The coupons will be valid for local grocery stores and other necessities. Monsieur Cotton mentioned, “this might even be better because now the families in the area are able to pick out what they want.”

Donations can be made online to The Knights of Columbus at www.chevalier2821.ca . “We have no start or end date for donations to be made because we fundraise to support the community all year round. So, no matter when you donate, your money will be going to help a family” assured Monsieur Cotton. Food donations are still be accepted and will be sanitized before being handed out, but “please do not leave donations on the door step of the organisation. Cans will freeze and explode” notified Monsieur Cotton, “please donate directly to the foodbanks because the food needs to keep coming.” “Everyone just be generous please. Help us help them. We have to be there to help everyone out” concluded Monsieur Cotton.