Wings Week fundraising walk today

In case anyone missed the street-wide banners in Troy, the Wings Week fundraising walk will take place today at 5 p.m.

Walkers will branch out from Morrison Elementary School to gather proceeds that will go to Montana's most comprehensive cancer assistance program.

Preparations for Wings Week in Troy are off to a good start. The junior high and high school have already raised more than $1,000 during the last couple weeks. The school's junior and senior classes have also donated $50 from their own treasury.

Wings Regional Cancer Support helps defray out-of-pocket expenses associated with cancer treatment, like housing, transportation and meals.

To date, Wings has given almost $800,000 to 1,180 patients. The average age of recipients is 60, but the organization has served patients as young as 16.

"Every penny we collect goes to the cancer patient. We have no officers, we have no administration, it stays local. We know all the people that the money helps," Wood said.

The efforts will be most visible during Wings Week, starting May 5, with Cinco de Mayo at the Yaak Tavern and Youth Trap Shoot on Saturday. A bowling tournament will take place 7 p.m. Tuesday at Lincoln Lanes in Libby and Trojan Lanes in Troy. Wednesday is Dollar Day, when volunteers in clown suits hit the downtown streets.

Last year's Mexican buffet at the Yaak, a one night event, raised $12,000.

Three communities are involved — Yaak, Troy and Libby — all of which coordinate efforts during Wings Week. Lincoln County raised $55,000 last year, which is a record for this community, Wood said.