To further the Fraternal Order of Eagles slogan of People Helping People, many of the club’s members helped create gift bags for children full of snacks, gifts and games donated by the Eagles as well as toothbrushes and toothpaste donated by Peppy Dental. The gift bags were given to the Jamestown Police Department to be given to children that the officers would have contact with during Christmas week.

For the second year, the Chautauqua Eagles Ladies Auxiliary put up a “Grap & Go” line for those in need in the community. The project, being headed up by Trustees Terri Rettberg, Kelly Cotter and Liz Olson, collects new or slightly used winter clothes and supplies. The donations are then placed outside on a clothesline for those who need them. Those individuals can feel free to take what is needed without asking for assistance. The auxiliary continues this good deed throughout the winter months.

Inside the Eagles Lodge on Third Street in Jamestown, the the Empire Animal Rescue Society (EARS) placed a Giving Tree asking for donations. The Eagles members responded with dozens of needed supplies including bleach, toys, pet food, soaps and gift cards. The Eagles Club also passed on a $100 cash donation and a commitment to next year’s Giving Tree campaign.

Keeping with the Fraternal Order of Eagles theme of honoring “Those Who Serve,” the local Eagles also wanted to thank many local first responders who work during the holidays. On Christmas Eve members of the Aerie delivered boxed lunches with deli sandwiches, snacks, fruit and water to the Third Platoon of the Jamestown Police Department working Christmas Eve overnight. On Christmas morning Tim Hortons muffins and donuts were delivered to the crews at ALSTAR EMS. And for lunch, club president Chris Sorenson and trustee Chris Allenson prepared and delivered a Christmas meal to the First Platoon at the Jamestown Fire Dept.

Chautauqua Eagles Aerie 2145 members are pictured with Jamestown police officers while delivering boxed lunches to officers working overnight on Christmas Eve.

Sorenson said the response of the members was unbelievable, and discussions have already begun on how to improve the Eagles Club holiday donations next year.

For more information on the Fraternal Order of Eagles can go to foe.com or contact jmsteagles@gmail,com.