BEDFORD — The Knights of Columbus Bedford Council will hold its 49th Annual Tootsie Roll Drive on September 11th and 12th, continuing a decades-long tradition of supporting local citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Proceeds from this year’s drive will directly benefit several community organizations, including the Lawrence County Arc, which provides critical job training and employment opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities. Funding will also support the Lawrence County Special Olympics, along with special education students across multiple local educational institutions:
- North Lawrence Community Schools
- Mitchell Community Schools
- St. Vincent de Paul School
- Lawrence County Independent Schools
- Springville Community Academy
Since launching the annual fundraiser in 1978, the local council has raised more than $500,000 to improve quality of life and learning environments for area children and adults with special needs. Past drive proceeds have funded life-skills classroom furnishings, accessible playground equipment, pre-K through 12th-grade instructional supplies, and physical improvements such as protective awnings for students traveling between buses and school buildings.
These contributions allow local service providers and schools to expand specialized resources at a pace beyond what standard operating budgets allow.
During the two-day event, Knights and community volunteers will accept donations at several local business locations:
- Walmart
- Rural King
- Price Less IGA
- Johnny Junxions
Community members wishing to contribute outside of store locations can mail donations directly to: Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive, 2202 M Street, Bedford, IN 47421
