SIDNEY -- The Kings Daughters and volunteers spent part of Friday morning packing food baskets for area families. About 380 people were reached and 150 food boxes prepared.

Sidney High School FFA students assisted with the food distribution.

The King’s Daughters organization has a 132-year history of selfless service to the charitable needs of our Cheyenne County community.

The Sidney Wide Awake Circle of King’s Daughters was founded in 1891 by military wives of Fort Sidney soldiers. During this century-plus period, the King’s Daughters have extended food, essentials, friendship and lent a helping hand to local residents in need, assisting them through exceptionally rough periods in their lives.

King’s Daughters is a non-denominational, non-profit Christian service organization with 501 c3 status. They coordinate all these efforts solely funded by the generous support from community donors. Unlike other local entities, no outside agencies support or assist King’s Daughters nor are there any paid individuals. All efforts are on a volunteer basis. All donations and distributions are kept confidential.

December is a busy month for King’s Daughters. Treat bags and cookie trays are delivered to shut- ins, elderly individuals, Western Heritage residents, OHD residents and those in the community who could use a little cheer. Poinsettias are delivered to individuals who have lost a spouse or child during the year. Christmas décor is hung at all the nursing/assisted living centers along with ensuring that each resident has a small gift.

About 180 food boxes are assembled and dispersed to families in need during the Christmas season. The boxes provide an entire Christmas meal for their family. The boxes include ham, potatoes, vegetables, fruit, and pie in addition to a few staples such as milk, bread and eggs. These groceries are purchased from local stores and are funded from the King’s Daughters donation drive.

The Circle continues to aid those in need not only during the Christmas season but throughout the entire year. The King’s Daughters do help with specific immediate essential needs such as utilities, groceries, fuel, rent, lodging or medical needs throughout the year. This assists local individuals through a rough period. The elderly, with limited finances, are assisted through the Congregate Meals program. During the school year, the organization supports local schools with essential items to care for students who need clothing or daily care items. Layettes are also assembled to support new parents in need of some of the essentials to help with their newborn.

To support the King's Daughters, mail can be sent to King's Daughters, P.O. Box 823, Sidney, NE. 69162, or call 308-249-7938.