Knights of Columbus donate to Special Olympics, Mosaic

Goodwill donations really add up. Just ask Osceola’s Knights of Columbus.

“We hand out the Tootsie Rolls for free and just ask for donations,” said member Jay Haumersen about their yearly fundraiser. “Since we’ve started here, we’ve been able to donate $19,430 locally.”

The group has been active in Osceola since the 1980s, but it’s still an important source of funds for area residents with intellectual disabilities. Thursday, Dec. 29, representatives of the Knights of Columbus donated a total of $1,265 to Clarke Special Olympics and Mosaic.

“The funds are primarily used for meals, lodging and transportation for state competitions,” said Clarke Special Olympics Coach Mike Peterson, noting that this year the athletes are in line for new uniforms.

Mosaic residents have a wider range of needs that need to be met. Changes to Medicaid programs in 2013 mean the facility is operating on a shoestring budget, said Kasi Jones, Mosaic community relations manager. Donations from the Knights of Columbus help bridge the gap between what Medicaid provides and what it takes to live a meaningful life.