FRONTENAC, Kan. — This week, schools and civic groups across the Four-State Area will honor veterans for their service.

For members of John Derby Post No. 43, American Legion, in Frontenac, their service hasn’t ended. About 15 years ago, the post teamed up with Frank Layden Elementary School to ensure that local families in need can celebrate upcoming holidays with food and gifts.

The partnership began when the school nurse, Terri Merrando, implemented a winter coat and hat distribution program. She and elementary teachers had noticed some students coming to school without proper winter clothing.

Thus began “Operation Wrap-Up.”

The American Legion soon stepped up to contribute to the project.

And each year since, just before Thanksgiving, the post has presented Merrando with three $100 Wal-Mart gift cards to provide holiday meals for those who might otherwise do without.

Each Christmas, post members return to present her with three more $100 Wal-Mart gift cards to provide families not just with meals, but also toys, educational items, toiletries and other gifts.

“They’re here like clockwork bringing checks,” Merrando said of the local veterans.

“It feels so great, makes you feel so humble. I load up the carts with turkey and ham and potatoes — everything they need to make a wonderful meal. It’s all about lightening their burden.”

Merrando described the post’s giving as a seed that blossomed: Numerous other groups have joined the effort to collect toys, canned goods and funds for needy families.

Ron Wattelet, finance officer for the post, said the Legion funds its charitable giving with weekly bingo games. Attendees include residents from Crawford, Cherokee and Bourbon counties, with the turnout varying from 50 to 80 players each week.

Wattelet and his fellow Legionnaires take a lot of pride in what they are able to do for the school. In addition to the holiday support, the post pays all fees associated with local high school students attending Boys State and Girls State each year, raises the colors at all home football games, and provides scholarships to deserving graduates.

As for whether Legion members know they’re making a difference, Merrando said she hopes that it is evident when they hear back from families they help.

“I always buy a disposable camera and a blank thank-you card, and encourage families we help to take pictures of their holiday gatherings, fill out the card and send it to the veterans,” she said. “They need to hear how much they’re touching people’s lives.”