American Legion finds permanent home
Senior citizens and veterans now share a common home in Pittsburg.
The Senior Citizens Center building, which has been the meeting place for the Gordon Mattison American Legion Post 422 in Pittsburg, is now owned by the post.
Just as it has in the past, the Camp County Senior Citizens Center will continue serving meals to seniors at the building and also through its meals on wheels program.
The transfer of the title deed for the building located at 525 Elm St. took place July 8 and the American Legion held a building dedication and flag raising July 27.
Franklin Harrison, commander of the post, said keys were formally transferred from the Senior Citizens Center to the American Legion.
“The official flag raising was held for the dedication of the flag representing the American Legion and veterans who both served and made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” he said.
Mr. Harrison said nothing will change for area seniors but the American Legion will now take over care of the building.
“The building will still be available on a daily basis from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and they’ll still be using it,” he said. “We have a contract with food service company that provides meals at the center as well as meals on wheels to homebound residents. They will still do this.”
Several committees are being formed for the building, including maintenance, contracts and leasing, funds investment, fundraising and special programs.
Mr. Harrison said he hopes to expand what the American Legion is able to do in Camp County, as well as offer the building for rent to other area organizations.
“I would like to see us get more programs for disabled veterans and for veterans’ families who need support,” he said. “That’s my goal. It will be something we will strive to accomplish.”
The Gordon Mattison Post searched for several years to find a permanent home; meeting at both the Senior Citizens Center and Pizza Inn.
By Tori Lyle, news@campcountynow.com -- To continue reading this article, purchase the print edition of The Pittsburg Gazette or go to our online e-edition at:http://www.etypeservices.com/
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