Vergennes American Legion donates fuel and food to needy

VERGENNES — During December, American Legion Post 14 in Vergennes focused on the needs of the local community in several different ways.

The Legion Post donated $2,750 to Jackman Fuels’ Heating Assistance Fund and $1,250 to the Vergennes Community Food Shelf, which is housed at the Vergennes Congregational Church. Both donations included funds from the Vermont Pikers, a group of fishermen from the Metro West Boston area who have been coming to Vermont to fish for northern pike each February since the 1980s.

In addition, the Legion paid the charter for the Vergennes Boy Scout Troop 539 and paid the registration on the Scouts’ trailer, which they use on projects. Post 14 has been sponsoring the local Boy Scout troop for close to 70 years.

Rounding out the month were the annual children’s Christmas party and several other events for different age groups to celebrate the holidays.

As 2016 arrives, American Legion Post 14, like all service organizations in the valley, is moving forward with purpose and dedication to meeting the needs of the community and to help improve the quality of life for veterans and their families and all who call this area home.

While Memorial Day may seem a long way away, Commander Paul Paquin encourages individuals, groups and organizations to begin to think about what role they want in the annual parade. “If you would like to be in the parade, want to volunteer, or are considering building a float,” he says, “give us a call at (802) 877-3216 with any questions or ideas.”