Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 278 will hold its second annual Wagons for Veterans fundraiser from 9 a.m. to about 2:30 p.m. March 30 at the Four States Fairground's Oasis area.
Like last year's, this year's fundraiser will benefit local disabled and needy military veterans and their families.
With an admission fee of $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under, those attending will choose from a varied menu of food cooked "the old-fashioned way"-in cast iron pots over an open fire.
When the gates open at 9 a.m., local bands will perform before the feeding starts at noon.
The event will also consist of both live and silent auctions.
VVA Chapter 278 President Greg Beck estimated last year's event drew more than 1,000 patrons and raised $9,100 or more to help local veterans and their families. Of the money raised, about $3,700 went to the local Heroes Pantry, which bought and gave out Thanksgiving turkeys and Christmas hams to local veterans and their families during the holidays.
Beck said another $500 went to help a local veteran with funeral services (cremation), while an additional $2,500 was used to help another veteran with housing demolition and another $1,200 went toward helping a disabled veteran build ramps to get better access to his house.
Last year, there were 15 chuckwagons supplying food; this year, at least 18 are expected.
For more information regarding wagon sponsorship, cash or supply donations or just about the event in general, local businesses and residents can call Beck at 903-556-1613 or Larry David at 903-701-1112.
Other contact numbers include: 903-908-2135, 903-748-0432, 870-773-8279 or 903-824-2727.