Christmas Charity 2007                        
Story by Bro. Brian Downie

St John's Lodge No. 9 contributed to four needy families for this years Christmas.  Three of the families provided "wish lists" of things they really needed. All Families received the food to prepare a complete Christmas dinner for their families and enough other food to last for some time afterward.  The The first family, consisting of of 8 members, received 7 warm winter jackets, and a comforter. In addition, their two children, ages 4 years, and 15 months, received warm clothing a and DVDs.  These were delivered by Brian Downie and Ken Lane  Sr.

The second family, consisting of 7 members, each received a warm winter jacket and a PSP game, again delivered by Brian Downie & Ken Lane Sr.

The third family, consisting of 5 members, received clothing for each plus snow boots and pj's for their 5 year old along with some bath towels.  The father's car was running on shredded tires and St. John’s Lodge No. 9 provided them with almost new front tires which Brad Greco got at a very reduced price from Discount Tires.  Jeff Lane got Rick's Chevron to mount them at no charge.  They also received kitchen pans that they really needed. Ken Lane Jr and Darlene Lane delivered these to this happy family and got big hugs in return.

Our last family was provided to us by Rev. Rich Lang.  The family of 4 would not have had anything for Christmas, if not for their friend, a lovely lady who provided us with a list of their needs.  They were unaware of this surprise until Ken Lane Jr and Darlene Lane delivered them their gifts.  These included food, clothing for each, sheets, towels, a DVD of the "Lost" TV show, The couple have 2 boys, 14 and 12.  Mom was really overwhelmed when her friend was there to help us surprise her.

Ken Jr and Darlene did all of the shopping and had a really fun time with the wrapping session at Grump’s home, with help from Ken Jr, Sarah Lane, Brian Downie, and Matt Lacroix.  Deliveries were made by Ken Lane Jr. Ken (Grump) Lane Sr., Darlene Lane, and Brian Downie.

St. John’s Lodge No. 9 made a very large difference in the lives of these needy families at this important time of year.