ABOUT THE MILK FUND
The fund was founded in 1945 by Mary Allensworth Creighton, who perceived a need by the children of many families in the community for more milk than parents were able to provide. As editor and publisher of two weeklies, The Galesburg Post and the Knoxville Journal, she was able to publicize the need for milk for the children and to solicit donations by personally writing a "Milk Fund" column over a period of many years. She was assisted by a secretary to assist in the distribution of milk and formula and a treasurer, to handle receipts and expenditures. Long time board members, Shirley Taylor and Marilyn Coburn serve as Treasurer and Secretary to further the mission of the Children's Milk Fund of Knox County.
Mary Creighton wished for all of the proceeds to reach children who live in poverty so the fund has no overhead and the organization is completely managed and run by volunteers. The work of her charity continues today as volunteers distribute milk vouchers through social organizations, food pantries and individuals to meet the milk and formula needs of the children of Knox County, Illinois. Adapting to the needs of individuals and adjusting to changing times has become a hallmark of the Children's Milk Fund. We work to revive the generous spirit in Knox County so that we never need to say 'no' to anyone who just needs a little milk, community spirit, and a heart. Mrs. Creighton said, "It is a blueprint for the simplest of all charities" and all we need today is a heart and a website keep it going.
