FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                              

  The Knights of Columbus Thank Community Participants  for a Successful Annual Fund Drive           

      Manchester, MO - (October 22, 2009) – The Knights of Columbus–Marian Council of St. Joseph’s Church wishes to thank area businesses for allowing their locations to be used as collection points for the Knights’ recent annual state-wide fund drive.  Obliging stores include: Dierbergs at Lafayette Center; Schnucks at Highway 141 and Big Bend; Schnucks at Hwy 141 and Clayton Road; Wal-Mart at 201 Highlands Boulevard Drive; Straub’s at Clayton Road and Mason; and Shop ‘N Save at Hwy. 141 and Big Bend.  These aforementioned stores exemplify what it means to be good corporate citizens, and the Knights appreciate their years of support. 

     “Our annual Fund Drive goes beyond simple charity,” explains Phil Desloge, Grand Knight of Marian Council.  “It’s our way of repaying those who enrich our lives through their strength and the dignity with which they lead their lives.”

     Last year over $600,000 was collected state wide by over 250 K. of C. councils with one half benefitting the Knights of Columbus Developmental Center at SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.  The other half is distributed locally by each K. of C. council to benefit over 200 statewide support agencies providing a variety of services to the physically and/or mentally challenged. 

     Locally this year, Marian Council has raised approximately $20,000, half of which will go to five support agencies, one of which is Lafayette Industries, a sheltered workshop providing meaningful jobs to over 350 adults at two locations, one in the heart of Manchester.  The collected funds make a significant impact, by providing challenged citizens leisure activities including field trips, ball games, and holiday parties. 

     “Lafayette greatly appreciates the Knights of Columbus’ annual support, which allows us to continue making a significant difference in the lives of our outstanding workers,” says Kathie Boyer, Lafayette Office Manager. 

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About The Knights of Columbus: The Knights of Columbus is the largest lay Catholic family tax exempt fraternal organization with more then 1.7 million members and their families who work to benefit our communities, church and fellow men and women.  It was founded on the principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.  The Knights have long placed an emphasis on programs benefiting children & adults who are mentally and physically challenged.

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 FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Elizabeth LeBrun, Development Officer Lafayette Industries 

(636) 227-5666 x 1127 

elebrun@lafayetteindustries.com