On Dec. 18, Manasota Elks Lodge #2734 held its children’s Christmas party with families from the three Title 1 schools the lodge partners with — Abel Elementary, Moody Elementary and Oneco Elementary schools. Thirteen families and a total of 33 children were served a hot breakfast. After breakfast, Santa arrived by fire truck and was greeted by the children outside the lodge. Needless to say, they were very excited! Santa’s elf, Jack, gave out their wrapped gifts, which included an outfit of clothing, a toy and a McDonald’s gift certificate. The children visited with Santa while family members took pictures. Each family also received a food basket with a ham as well as nonperishable food. This was all made possible by funds from the lodge’s Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant, 30 lodge volunteers, Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue Station 4, and of course, Santa (Tim Hillman) and his elf (Jack Shutts).

Pictured are two children visiting with Santa and Jack the elf.