On Sept. 1, Jacksonville Elks Lodge #221 partnered with local organizations Operation Barnabus and Mercy Automotive Charitable Foundation to help purchase a vehicle for Dee, a Navy veteran, and her family; she has been going through difficult times dealing with PTSD. The lodge used $500 from its Elks National Foundation Freedom Grant. Dee, the mother of three children, ages 17, 12 and 10, was introduced to Operation Barnabus several months ago through local veterans she had met. She has received help and support from volunteers at Operation Barnabus who have helped her overcome her struggles with PTSD. This support, along with the strength and power of faith, has empowered her to move forward with her life in a positive way. In Dee’s words, time and time again, “God is good!” Operation Barnabas is a faith-based nonprofit organization assisting military veterans and first responders who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As stated on their website, their “purpose is to provide hope, encouragement and mentorship to at-risk Clay County veterans and first responders through outreach and resources in a swift and timely manner. By providing sanctuary, meeting physical needs, and linking resources, we endeavor to ignite a positive transformation in those striving to find purpose and meaning.” Mercy Auto provides high-quality affordable vehicles that have been inspected and are reliable to anyone working on more self-sustainability.
Pictured are Karla, owner of Mercy Automotive Charitable Foundation; Dee, Navy veteran; Pastor John Green, operations officer of Operation Barnabus; Robin Pipkins, Elks National Foundation Grants lodge chair; and Deborah Reedy, PER, Lodge Secretary.