Ilion-Mohawk Pop Warner Donation Jar Stolen…Again

For the second year in a row someone has stolen a donation jar that was collecting funds for the Ilion-Mohawk Pop Warner Football team, the Central Valley Lightning(formerly the Ilion-Mohawk Angels).

The donation jar that was stolen this year was taken from Greenie's market on Main St. in Ilion, across the street from the Ilion Elk's Club.

I happen to live in Ilion and frequent Greenie's, and I have seen how much money local residents have stuffed into that jar.

Someone made off with quite the payday, all while taking money from kids who just want to play football.

The jar was there to collect money to help offset the cost of uniforms, equipment, and two programs that get kids involved with Pop Warner football and cheerleading.

The money is also earmarked to offset the costs of the Challenger team for special needs children across the Mohawk Valley as well as a ‘no child left behind’ program that allows kids who cant afford to sign up a chance to play for free.

Police are investigating, but in the meantime if anyone has information on the stolen donation jar, you can contact Ilion Police at 315-894-9911, or contact the Central Valley Lightning on their Facebook page.

If you would like to make an individual donation to help the kids get their money back you can send them to Central Valley Pop Warner, PO Box 296, Ilion, NY, 13357.

The same thing happened last year when another jar was stolen from the Ilion Cliff's store. A Go Fund Me Page was set up to replace the money and Man Tip Of The Day was able to put them ahead of the $500 goal.

The thief was also found thanks to surveillance footage.

Hopefully this situation will have the same outcome.

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