The local Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #5 was presented with a check for $1,000 to help offset the cost the FOP senior dinner.

Each year for about 30 years, with the exception of a few years in between, the local FOP chapter has hosted a senior dinner to serve citizens who have spent their lives enriching the community.

“What it is, is to give back to the senior citizens during the holiday season,” FOP member Dan Arter said.

Wednesday afternoon, Ohio Stave presented a check to members of the FOP Lodge #5 to assist with the cost of the annual event.

Ohio Stave Office Manager Kelly Price said the company supports the local FOP and all of the things the organization does for the community.

Price added that Ohio Stave has donated funds to the FOP for the past couple of years to support initiatives by the organization.

The donated funds are typically used for the senior dinner in addition to the fundraising monies raised by the FOP lodge throughout the year.

All seniors, 65 years-old and older, from Muskingum and surrounding counties are welcome at the senior dinner.

“They’ve given their time and effort to this community over the years and it’s time to give back,” Arter said.

The free meal will be hosted at Secrest Auditorium on Dec. 12. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. and the meal, catered by Gity’s Catering, will be served beginning at 11 a.m.

Local FOP members, law enforcement and community celebrities will be present to serve the meal.