WILTON — A Wilton flag project takes a giant step forward with the gift of a matching grant. 

The Wilton Day Extension Homemakers recently learned that Modern Woodmen of America will provide the $2,000 matching grant that the group requested for the flag project.

The total is now approximately $4,400 for the flags, said Town Manager Rhonda Irish, who is accepting and depositing donations for the project.

The check for $2,000 will be presented to the Extension group at their meeting at noon on Jan. 12 at St. Luke’s Church at High and School streets.

The community service project, started by the Extension group, has blossomed with support from local residents and businesses. The group raised $500 and received $1,500 in donations, allowing them to seek the matching grant.

The donations will allow 80 American flags to fly above the streets of Wilton, East Wilton and East Dixfield from May to November, Hazel Flagg, Extension member, said.

Some people have given donations to purchase a flag to honor or in memory of an individual or veteran in their lives, she said.

Eighty poles have been chosen in four areas: from Rick’s Market to Woodland Avenue on Route 156 and on Main Street from the fire station to the blinking light at the intersection of Route 2 and Maxwell Road.

In East Wilton, flags will go on poles from the Sweden House to the intersection with Route 2 and Route 4 and in East Dixfield from the fire station to Osgood’s garage, she said.

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