In April, 1992, a group of Tonkawa citizens saw a need for a place that the senior citizens of our community could have as our own for meals, fellowship and other programs. The original board members were Emma Walcher, Garry O’Mealey, Robert E. Steichen and Hubert McIntyre. They received a certificate of incorporation under the name of “Tonkawa Lincoln Center Inc.” That name was chosen as they planned to purchase the old Lincoln school but it fell through after the 501 certificate was received. In April 2000 the board officially purchased the former American Legion building across the street from the municipal building.
Currently the building is used by Wheatheart Nutrition which serves hot meals at lunch four days a week and delivers hot meals to people who cannot get out. One room is used for an office for the Cherokee Strip transportation. The building is also used for health programs such as immunization clinic, blood pressure checks and other programs supplied by Kay County nurses or Fire Department EMTs. Social Activities are sponsored by the Senior Citizens Club.
The TLC is responsible for the building upkeep, repairs and insurance. The only income that it has is money from a grant and donations. Occasionally the group rents the building for family get togethers or organization meetings. The amount of the grant has gone down tremendously. This past year they only allowed $1000 and the insurance was $1500.
Tonkawa community has always met its needs.
One of the Air conditioners has had expensive repairs to keep it going. The repairman said it could go out again at any time. It has certainly been needed this year.
The Tonkawa Lincoln Center is asking for your help. Donations can be given to any of its board members or dropped off at the center or Gateway First Bank (Farmers Exchange) or First National Bank.
Board Members include Robert Steichen, Beverly Frazier, Yolla Bray, Guy Lyall, David Williams, Furman Simmons, Terry Ballard and Shirley Cross.
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