MONSON – In an effort to help send children to Clara Barton Camp for Diabetes, the Thomas DaySpring Lodge and Monson Polish American Citizens Club (P.A.C.C.), are coming together to host their first annual car and motorcycle show.

On Aug. 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. the event will take place at the Monson P.A.C.C., 7 Bliss St.

Dylan Mann, master of the Thomas DaySpring Lodge and member of the P.A.C.C., explained that although this event is the first of its kind, the lodge has been raising money for years to send a child to Clara Barton in Oxford.

Their efforts alone have raised nearly $700 from hosting dinners and smaller fundraisers. Mann added that they worked in conjunction with the Monson Lions Club.

He went on to say that he has many friends with kids who have type 1 diabetes. It can be a “financial burden,” said Mann. As the camp costs “quite a bit of money,” raising funds to assist these families has been beneficial, he added.

Oftentimes, Mann said other issues stand in the way. For instance, some parents have reservations about sending their child to the camp, as they are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.

According to The Barton Center for Diabetes, Clara Barton is a camp strictly for girls. “The focus of our programs is fun and support; the goal is to educate children and their families on how to manage the daily rigors of diabetes, so they can live fuller and healthier lives,” they said.

By hosting the motorcycle and car show, Mann said their goal is to hopefully send a handful of children to camp for more than one week.

While the Thomas DaySpring Lodge is expanding on their efforts, Mann said the Polish Club is looking to become more involved. He noted that the Polish Club has a “better” facility to host this type of event.

Depending on the number of vehicles, Mann said they will use some surrounding, empty parking lots for the show. Each vehicle will receive an identification on the day of the event. At the end of the day, trophies will be awarded for different classes including truck, car, motorcycle and best in show.

The lodge will be selling sausage and meatball grinders, while the P.A.C.C. will offer hot dogs, hamburgers, beer and more. There will also be kettle corn and ice cream vendors, shared Mann.

He added that there will be a 50/50 raffle with various baskets to win.

Due to the venue, there is no limit to how many people may attend this event. Although there is no cost to attend, a $10 donation is suggested to register a vehicle.