The annual Christmas Basket Fund has begun accepting donations of money and requests for assistance.

The fund was started in 1945 by local World War II veterans to provide food for area families at Christmas.

Now in its 69th year, the project is sponsored by American Legion Post 89 in Seymour in partnership with Jay C Food Stores, Jackson County Bank and The Tribune.

Originally, the fund was started for those in need in Seymour but was expanded later to include all of Jackson County.

Donations to the 2013 Christmas Basket Fund totaled $12,809, which was used to purchase 285 gift cards for families or individuals in need, said committee chairman Carl VonDielingen.

This year’s fund received its first donation Wednesday of $250 from Jackson Lodge 146 Free and Accepted Masons in Seymour. In recent years, the lodge generally has been the first donor.

The fund already has received more than 20 requests for assistance. Most requests come from people who have lost their jobs or elderly residents who rely on Social Security income.

“We had some come in early requesting assistance for Thanksgiving,” VonDielingen said.

Post commander Jack Schrader also is helping with the project, serving as treasurer.

This year’s goal is to raise enough money for more than 300 gift cards. The

$50 gift cards can be used

to purchase food at Jay

C Food Stores.

In 2011, donations to the fund totaled $20,130, setting a new record for

money raised.

All donations may be mailed to or dropped off at American Legion Post 89, The Tribune or any branch of Jackson County Bank.

Businesses, corporations, service groups, churches, individuals or families may donate, VonDielingen said.

Donors may contribute anonymously if they choose and may dedicate their donations to others. Donors and their dedications are published daily in The Tribune.

In order to receive one of the gift cards, people must live in Jackson County and must submit a letter stating their need for assistance. Requests should be mailed to American Legion Basket Fund, P.O. Box 566,

Seymour, IN 47274. All requests must be received by

Dec. 15.

There is a limit of one gift card per person and one per address, VonDielingen said.

Requests that list a post office box address will not be accepted.

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Donations from individuals and businesses may be given to the Christmas Basket Fund through Jackson County Bank, The Tribune or American Legion Post 89.

Individuals may write a letter requesting assistance to American Legion Post 89 at P.O. Box 566, Seymour, IN 47274.

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