On Jan. 22, Green Cove Springs Elks Lodge #1892 hosted a community baby shower, which was funded by the Elks National Foundation Spotlight Grant. New mothers from the community were given a diaper bag, diapers, baby wipes, toys, bottles, bibs and sippy cups. To support early literacy, each mother also received a home library of seven children's books. Additional door prizes of strollers, playpens, bath sets, monitors and other useful items were presented. Lodge volunteers worked in conjunction with volunteers from the local library, Florida Elks Children's Therapy Services (FECTS), and members of the Clay County Sheriff’s Department and Green Cove Springs Police Department to greet families, present gifts, host games, provide helpful information, serve lunch, and provide an afternoon of celebration and community support.

Pictured are member Kim Miller, a grandmother and new mother with her twins, Sergeant Tammy Perry, and librarian Jennifer Parker.

Lodge members and volunteers prepare for the event.

Pictured are FECTS therapist Melanie Sarris; lodge grant coordinator, Tracy Carroll, PER; and FECTS therapist Rae Montgomery.

Deputy Tim Mulvaney, Kim Miller, Deputy Sherri Leach, and Lucie Barnette, PER hand out diapers and supplies.