Cape Girardeau Eagles donate food baskets to families for Christmas

Each year, Eagles Aerie 3775 of Cape Girardeau donates food baskets to 135 families.

"It's a day we all look forward to each year," says Gene Martin, co-chairman of the Christmas basket program. "Everyone wants to be sure and arrange their schedule to be here to help."

The program started more than 20 years ago and has never slowed down.

Each family gets two large laundry baskets filled with items ranging from bread to milk, eggs to chicken and anything in between.

"We try and give the families the things they need for the holidays and beyond," said Ken Sanders, co-chairman. "They even get to keep the laundry baskets."

Presents included

Much of the food is donated, and the rest the club buys. In addition to food items, families with children receive wrapped toys and presents donated by individuals and groups, such as the Freedom of the Road Riders motorcycle organization. They hold a toy and food run each year and donate a large amount for the baskets.

The Fraternal Order of Eagles is a service organization dedicated to "People Helping People."

"That is our motto," said aerie president Chuck Robinson. "That is what the Eagles do best."

lredeffer@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 160