The Knights of Columbus donated $4,000 to the Cahaba Center for Mental Health Wednesday and in the process, made a trip to the Special Olympics possible for many local athletes.

For anyone not familiar, the Knights of Columbus is a national Catholic fraternity. Each year the group donates to the center, which makes a trip to the state Special Olympics possible.

“This is one of the court missions of the Knights of Columbus to help agencies like this,” said grand knight Corey Bowie.

All too often, those with disabilities or mental illness don’t get enough financial assistance. Fortunately, locals like the Knights of Columbus understand what the Special Olympics mean to the athletes that compete and to the community, which usually pours in support.

The donation will help more with the state event in Troy in May, but the local games are also coming up in a few weeks at Memorial Stadium. Last year more than 100 athletes competed in shot put, ball kick, softball throw and running events.

Athletes came from Selma, Uniontown, Camden, Marion and Chatom to participate in last year’s Olympics. We’d guess another 100 or so will compete this year and then 50 are expected to make the trip to Troy.

The olympics help many with disabilities stay or get physically fit and make friends. Plus, it’s a chance for them to show off what they can do.

Whether it’s travel cost, food or other expenses, we’re sure the $4,000 the knights donated will come in handy.

We applaud the Knights of Columbus on their donation and are looking forward to the local Special Olympics and to see how our Selma’s athletes do at the state contest in May.