On Feb. 7, Aripeka Elks Lodge #2520 donated suitcases and backpacks to Guardian Ad Litem for children in the foster care program after they learned that many children arrive at a new foster home with their belongings in a trash bag. The lodge will continue this program as long as there is a need.
On Nov. 18, four elementary schools each received 19 fleece hoodie zip jackets from Zephyrhills Lodge #2731. The jackets were purchased with lodge charity funds.
Pictured at the West Elementary delivery are Kevin Morris, member; Alice Tolson, member; Judy Osgood, ENF Chairperson; Cammie Wilkinson, school secretary; and Jennifer Bayless, clinic assistant.
With the benefit of an Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant for the fourth year, members of Kissimmee Elks Lodge #1873 hosted foster and diversion care families of Osceola County Dec. 14. Providing for over 200 children in the system along with their families and siblings, they fed 800 individuals. They also offered pony rides, a super-sized bounce house, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and multiple games and activities. There was a huge collection of donated toys and gifts from the Elks members and the community. The caregivers could choose three gifts for each child at no cost. Elroy the Elk got many hugs and was a great hit as he passed out coloring books and red ribbon bookmarks encouraging them to be free from drugs and alcohol.
Pictured are Santa and Mrs. Claus, Elroy the Elk, and leaders and members of lodge-sponsored scout troop #82 acting as Santa's helpers.
With the benefit of an Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant for the fourth year, members of Kissimmee Elks Lodge #1873 hosted foster and diversion care families of Osceola County Dec. 14. Providing for over 200 children in the system along with their families and siblings, they fed 800 individuals. They also offered pony rides, a super-sized bounce house, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and multiple games and activities. There was a huge collection of donated toys and gifts from the Elks members and the community. The caregivers could choose three gifts for each child at no cost. Elroy the Elk got many hugs and was a great hit as he passed out coloring books and red ribbon bookmarks encouraging them to be free from drugs and alcohol.
Pictured are Santa and Mrs. Claus, Elroy the Elk, and leaders and members of lodge-sponsored scout troop #82 acting as Santa's helpers.
On Dec. 14, Aripeka Lodge hosted its third annual Guardian Ad Litem Christmas gift party for children who are placed in foster care by the courts. Lodge members used an Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant to purchase 26 bicycles and 24 tablets to help make Christmas a special day for these children. In addition, Guardian Ad Litem of Pasco County collected hundreds of presents from community businesses and other community members to make sure the 35 tables in the large hall were covered with presents. The children and their foster parents were treated to hot dogs, chips and soda. The lodge’s own Santa and Mrs. Claus were a big hit among the children.