Cornwall Knights recognized at convention

Cornwall Council 755 of the Knights of Columbus received several awards at the 121st State Convention in Niagara Falls earlier this month.

The council won awards for best council, state deputy longevity, family service and lifetime service and was runner-up for the faith and community service honours.

Ontario Council 755 has for the past 75 years been a source of support and funding for numerous non-profit groups such as minor sports organizations, schools, guides, pro-life communities and parishes.

Members prepared, served and paid for the cost of material for many parishes and schools in support of their fundraising efforts. The council held two fundraisers that netted about $5,000. The council’s holding company, which operates two banquet halls, facilitated fundraising activities. Halls are donated to the group and two commercial kitchens make it all happen. Volunteer members shop for supplies, help set up the venue, prepare meals and clean up afterwards. The room, food and supplies are all donated.

Over these many years, countless members have volunteered their hours for these events.

Members have contributed well over 19,679 hours so far this year, and at $18 per hour, that equates to $354,222.

“We will continue the current programs and strive to expand into new ones,” said Grand Knight Roland Besner.

“One of the new programs we are proud to have participated in is the Coats for kids program. This year we purchased 84 brand new winter coats (various sizes for men and women) which we distributed to the needy at various schools, the homeless and veterans. And the Council’s executive hopes to expand the program even further this year.”