Community Services
Charles Lenau, Chairman
Blood Drives
In 1938, the Knights of Columbus became the first national organization to establish a blood donor program implemented across the Order. Knights families continue to support this life-giving initiative today, but Council participation is essential for reporting blood donations.
As part of the Leave No Neighbor Behind coronavirus response, Councils are encouraged to schedule their own blood drives or support those in their area. After the drive, report the number of units collected using the Blood Drive Report Form available on the state website.
Wheelchair Mission
A vital component of our Life Services program, the Wheelchair Mission partners with the American Wheelchair Mission to provide new wheelchairs to those in need. Thanks to the generosity of Knights families across the U.S., thousands of wheelchairs have been distributed globally.
A donation of $150 helps deliver a wheelchair to someone in need. Additionally, past contributions enable the State Council to offer free wheelchairs to local neighbors in need. To receive Featured Program credit, Councils must purchase a container of 110–280 wheelchairs, depending on size. Consider organizing a Wheelchair Sunday Drive this year! Make checks payable to Columbian Charities and include "Wheelchair" in the memo line.
Agape House & Prison Concern
The Agape House (pronounced ah-gah-pay) provides families of prisoners a place to stay overnight when visiting incarcerated loved ones. Rooted in Christian love ("Agapē"), it offers respect, care, and dignity to all guests.
Councils, Assemblies, and Auxiliaries are asked to contribute $50 to this worthwhile cause. Make checks payable to Columbian Charities and note "Prison Concern" in the memo line.
Habitat for Humanity
While Habitat for Humanity has not been a traditional partner for Missouri Knights, many Knights families across the nation have built strong relationships with their local Habitat chapters to provide homes for those in need.
Knights Councils partner with this Christian nonprofit to build homes at substantially reduced costs. To meet program requirements, Councils may donate a minimum of $1,000 or 200 service hours to Habitat projects in their community. Contact your local Habitat affiliate via www.habitat.org or email volunteer@habitat.org for upcoming projects.
Helping Hands
The Helping Hands Program recognizes the work many Councils already do to support disadvantaged members of the community, such as the homeless, the addicted, and the elderly. Councils are encouraged to assist in ways that best suit their local needs, whether by running a soup kitchen, repairing service organization facilities, or initiating unique programs.
The program's broad requirements allow Councils to address physical, social, emotional, or spiritual needs as creatively as possible, ensuring maximum impact within their communities.
Disaster Preparedness
Disasters can disrupt communities, from large-scale natural events to local crises. As community leaders, Knights of Columbus ensure readiness through planning and education. This program promotes preparedness, response assessment, and proactive actions to handle emergencies effectively.
Councils are encouraged to:
- Meet with local emergency management or police departments to learn community disaster procedures.
- Consult with parish priests annually to identify parish needs during emergencies and determine how Knights can assist.
- Organize fundraisers and educational events to support larger disaster relief efforts.