Kiwanis member Doug Fiske introduced Wreaths Across America coordinator Linda McCain at Thursday’s meeting. McCain talked about Wreaths Across America and their mission. The organization provides wreaths to be placed on the graves of veterans in the month of December. McCain helps to raise funds to purchase said wreaths and holds a ceremony to honor veterans. Last year in 2018 the organization serviced three cemeteries and in 2019 plan to service seven.
New this year Paulding was selected to receive a Wreaths Across America mobile unit. The unit is semi-trailer sized and contains seating and videos about the organization inside. This educational tool is a great way to spread the word and to share the story behind the wreaths. You can expect to see the mobile unit in the Chief parking lot, and at Flat Rock Creek Fall Festival in September.
“I was amazed at the community support,” says McCain. This year the placing of the wreaths will take place on December 14th at noon at the St. Paul cemetery. Wreaths are $15 a piece or 3 for $30. All wreaths are fresh and made in Columbia Falls Maine. You can place the wreaths you purchased on specific graves of loved ones, or you can donate and help provide extra wreaths for other veterans as well. With a goal to sell 500 wreaths in 2019 the organization is on a role by already selling over 200. The goal is to be able to service every cemetery in Paulding County if funds allow. To purchase a wreath you can call Linda McCain at 419-670-2659. Corporations and businesses are welcomed to donate as well. Kiwanis thanks Linda and her team for their hard work and dedication to honoring our veterans.
