To the Editor:

On Saturday, April 4 and 11, the St. Jude Council of the Knights of Columbus and the parishioners of St. Jude’s Catholic church — over 40 members and their families — accepted donations in front of the Franklin Super Walmart to support the KOVAR Tootsie Roll campaign.

KOVAR is a Virginia Knights of Columbus Charity established in 1971 to provide financial assistance through grants and home loans to tax-exempt organizations providing training and assistance to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

KOVAR has provided more than $10 million in grants and currently has in force over $1 million in group home interest-free mortgages.

As an example, locally, The Children’s Center of Franklin was awarded $21,800 in 2006 for renovations and an expansion along with many other organizations such as Zuni Presbyterian Home, Graz’n Acres Therapeutic Riding Center in Sedley, Suffolk and Emporia social services, and Special Olympics.

This totally volunteer organization accepts no salaries or expense compensation and was recognized by the Virginia State Legislature as the most effective and efficient charitable organization serving persons with intellectual disabilities in Virginia.

This year, with reasonable weather, willing volunteers, and the overwhelming generosity of the local community, we have again had a very successful campaign. We are very grateful to the Walmart organization for its great support and accommodations and to the entire community of Franklin and Western Tidewater.

Daniel R. Hohman

Ivor

Chairman, KOVAR Committee

St. Jude’s Council

Knights of Columbus