On Nov. 1, the Veterans Committee of Lakewood Ranch-Sarasota Elks Lodge #2855 participated in a local Stand Down and used $4,000 of its $6,000 Elks National Foundation Spotlight Grant to purchase 230 backpacks, toiletries, protein bars and blankets, which were distributed to veterans experiencing homelessness. They donated the remaining $2,000 to help feed veterans during the event.
Pictured are members Claire Melia, Rosalie Hika, Greg Hika and Jim Clark.
