Wheelchair Mission Update

Below are Wheelchair Mission activities that I am aware of so far during this fraternal year.Please let me know what your councils and dioceses are doing to support the American Wheelchair Mission, so that I can include them in future reports.

In July, Father Emil Platte Council 5052 of Mary Immaculate in Farmers Branch held their 4^th annual Wheelchair Drive.They raised over $17K, which is equal to what was raised the prior 3 years combined when they were doing pulpit announcements instead of pulpit talks.Thanks to Dallas Diocesan Deputy Roy Rabenaldt for his efforts in leading their drive all 4 years.

In August, the El Paso Diocese and Fort Worth Diocese completed their fundraising of $16,500 for a small container of 110 wheelchairs to be distributed locally.Joseph Grillo helped make this happen in El Paso and George Webster in Fort Worth.

In September, Prince of Peace Council 11716 in Plano distributed a portion of the 280 standard wheelchairs and 100 specialty wheelchairs they funded in March with over $103K for the CRIT Center in Merida, Mexico.Ten people made the trip including Prince of Peace pastor, Father Tom Cloherty, and State Charity Director Boyd Burris and his wife Patricia.

In October, Santa Maria Council 6065 of St. Mark the Evangelist in Plano raised over $30K with their first ever Wheelchair Drive.Their successful drive will provide wheelchairs for the CRIT Center in Tamaulipas, Mexico thanks to the leadership of Charlie Minjares, Bill Butcher and Grant Burton.The Austin Diocese also completed their fundraising of $16,500 for a small container of 110 wheelchairs to be distributed locally thanks to Joe Jimenez for all his efforts.

In November, Our Lady of Angels Council 13044 in Allen will also be holding their first ever Wheelchair Drive.Their drive will also benefit the CRIT Center in Tamaulipas, Mexico so that a large container of 280 wheelchairs can be sent there.Brad Meyer is leading their drive.

I know of other councils that have already scheduled Wheelchair Drives for February, March and June of next year.This is the most effective way to raise funds for the Wheelchair Mission. So far this fraternal year, the state of Texas has raised over $80K for the American Wheelchair Mission.We need more councils to step up and help with this mission by holding a Wheelchair Sunday at their parish in order to reach the state goal of $400K. I would be glad to address any questions or concerns you might have and help you get started.Please contact me via email at yankeesweb@tx.rr.com or cell at 214-405-8023.