On July 30, Manasota Elks Lodge #2734 held its annual picnic at Veterans Village in Bradenton, Florida. Lodge members prepared and donated the side dishes and the lodge’s Veterans Committee donated the funds to purchase the meat, buns and condiments for a total of 35 residents and staff members, who were very appreciative. The remaining food was left with them to enjoy later. Veterans Village is a community where Manatee GPD (Grand Per Diem program) provides clinical treatment, transitional housing and case management services to veterans experiencing homelessness. Manasota Lodge has been very active with the community for the last five years in various capacities such as picnics, holiday dinners and Welcome Home kits.
Pictured in front is Spike Klocke, lodge grant coordinator, with veterans at the buffet tables.