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Friday, October 23, 2009 9:22 PM CDT
Firefighters begin Thanksgiving basket drive



MATTOON — Local firefighters are seeking donations and names for their annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive.

The annual charity conducted by Mattoon Firefighters Local 691 collects money for up to 140 baskets to distribute to needy families and individuals, said Local 691 president Bart Owen.

“We include a turkey, vegetables, bread or rolls, a dessert, milk and fruit. That way it can make more than one meal for them,” said Owen.

The baskets will be distributed Nov. 21 so the meals can be prepared in time for Thanksgiving Day. Mattoon has been part of the program, designed to help everyone have a Thanksgiving meal, since 2001.

Owen said donations will be collected at the fire department and not through any phone solicitation effort.

“If they want to donate to this then just contact us at Station One (235-0931) or mail it to Mattoon Firefighter Local 691, 1812 Prairie Ave., Mattoon, Ill., 61938. All funds for this go to the Thanksgiving baskets,” Owen explained.

People wanting to add local residents to the distribution list can do so by a phone call or by dropping off a suggestion.

“People have to realize we have to do that on a first-come, first-served basis,” Owen said.

This is one of the charities sponsored by MFD firefighters during the holidays. The department also sponsors Operation Sleigh Ride that collects money for purchasing gifts for needy children for Christmas.

Contact Herb Meeker at hmeeker@jg-tc.com or 238-6869.


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