In January 2024, Tarpon Springs Elks Lodge #1719 partnered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, an organization dedicated to building, assembling and delivering twin beds and bunk beds to children in need. The local chapter’s co-president is a Tarpon Springs resident and is very excited to work with the lodge. SHP has provided more than 2,900 beds in their five-year history, but they continue to receive an average of 130 bed requests per month.

Pictured Jan. 20 are the more than 30 lodge volunteers who built 50 beds using $5,000 from the Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant. Also pictured are Jim Baker, SHP director; Steven Kikta, Exalted Ruler; Ann Baker, SHP director; and Mary Kurchinski, Elks National Foundation Lodge Grants Coordinator.