American Legion Auxiliary Unit 809 in Maytown has a variety of projects that support veterans.

Various efforts took place during Christmastime. The auxiliary made 30 Christmas bags for the veterans in Paramount and Rheems nursing and rehabilitation centers, and it sent Christmas boxes to seven local members of the military who are serving overseas. Unit 809 provided scarves and lap blankets for veterans in the Coatesville, Lebanon and Southeastern Veterans Affairs hospitals, donating a total of 21 items.

Additionally, Unit 809 has "adopted" a veteran named Carl who is a permanent patient at Coatesville Veterans Affairs Hospital. The auxiliary was notified between Thanksgiving and Christmas that this opportunity was available. For Christmas, the auxiliary gave Carl a shirt in his favorite color, blue; several pairs of socks; and three word puzzle books. In celebration of Valentine's Day, Carl received a blue afghan crocheted by Unit 809 new member Nila Grose and a box of chocolates.

The auxiliary undertook a similar long-term effort in the 1960s, when it aided a young boy named Chris at Scotland School for Veterans Children. Chris' father had been killed in action during a time of war. Unit 809 purchased clothing for Chris, sent him gifts at holidays, wrote letters to him, and visited him. One auxiliary member even went to his graduation and presented him with his class ring.

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 809 will host an Antique, Art, Craft and Collectible Show on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27. Food, including breakfast, will be available beginning at 8 a.m. Tickets will be available for a chance to win a hand-crocheted American flag made by Grose. At 2 p.m., there will be a program, and state Rep. Tom Jones will dedicate special bricks. To reserve a space at the event, vendors may call 717-426-2107. The event is a fundraiser to benefit veterans.

Unit 809 is selling engraved bricks to honor military members and veterans. The bricks will be placed in Maytown Square. For more information, call the aforementioned number.