Staff Reports

The 75th annual Christmas Basket Fund jumped to $16,599 on Wednesday with recent donations of $265.

The newest donations include:

$50, anonymous

In memory of loved ones, $100, from Jed and Margie Strange

In memory of Dr. Larry Sunbury and Emil and Ruth Trimpe, $50, from Tim and Sandy Trimpe

In loving memory of family members who have passed away, including my husband, Gary Henderson; son, Ric Tatlock; parents, Elroy and Mary Marcott; and Gary’s parents, Russell and Lula Henderson, $25, from Diane Henderson

In loving memory of Roger M. Clark, $40, from his loving wife and family

The generosity of Jackson County residents has resulted in more than $10,000 being raised each of the past few years. The 2011 Christmas Basket Fund raised a record $20,130, and the fund raised $17,210 in 2010.

Donations may be mailed to or dropped off at American Legion Post 89, The Tribune or any JCB branch. Donors and their dedications are published daily in The Tribune.

Donations allow for $50 JayC Food Stores gift cards to be distributed to less-fortunate people in the area whose applications are approved.

Businesses, corporations, service groups, churches, individuals or families may donate. Donors may contribute anonymously if they choose or may dedicate their donations in memory or in honor of others.

The fund was started in 1945 by veterans returning home to Seymour and Jackson County from World War II to provide food for area families at Christmas.

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