Lakeland Elks Lodge #1291 used its Elks National Foundation Freedom Grant to help patients at the James A. Haley VA Hospital and veterans who are experiencing homelessness who are assisted through a hospital program. The lodge donated numerous toiletries, hygiene products and blankets as well as 46 T-shirts, 75 undershirts, 31 pairs of shoes, 37 pairs of pants, 171 pairs of underwear and 174 pairs of socks. They also provided the homeless veteran program with 50 weatherproof draw-string backpacks that were filled with a blanket, rain poncho, cleansing cloths, toothpaste, toothbrush and toothbrush holder, soap, deodorant, and socks. Members also sent signed cards and notes to the hospital for delivery to the inpatient veterans to show that Elks care and are always thinking of them. Everything was delivered to a hospital representative Oct. 16 by members Steve Masterton, PER (left) and John McArthur (right). Also pictured are members who packed the backpacks — Alice Murray; Char Fisher, Veterans Committee Chair; Vickie Crosby, member spouse; Christy Frady; and Sandy Fuschetti.
