On Nov. 1, Manasota Elks Lodge #2734 used its $6,000 Elks National Foundation Spotlight Grant to support the local Stand Down, sponsored by Turning Points. They donated a portion of the funds to the organizer to purchase needed items, such as bus passes. The balance was used to purchase backpacks imprinted with Elks Care — Elks Share. They then purchased toiletries for the backpacks, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, bar soap, shampoo, toilet paper, shaving kits and more. They held a backpack stuffing party before the event. At the event, they had a table in the veterans only section and distributed the backpacks.
Pictured are Jim Klocke, PER; Spike Klocke, member; Kathleen Kramer, Turning Points director; and Margie Dawson and Andy Guyre of Turning Points.
