EDUCATION

Back-to-school giveaway offered at Elks Lodge

Michelle Patrick Twitter: @SJMichelleP
Jasmine and George Hernandez, who are entering fifth and first grades, respectively, were among many students who received free backpacks and school supplies Wednesday at the Sturgis Elks Lodge’s back-to-school event.

Sturgis Elks Lodge #1381 once again offered a back-to-school event for students in grades K-5 and their families.

The event was held Wednesday, and featured free backpacks stuffed with school supplies. Free, gently used school clothes also  were available, as well as a complimentary dinner of deli sandwiches, chips and lemonade.

About halfway through the two-hour-long event, many of the backpacks had been claimed.

Backpacks are offered on a “while supplies last” basis and since all backpacks had been given out in years past, this year organizers upped the number of backpacks available from 150 to 200, according to Natalie Boland, Elks past exalted ruler.

This marked the fourth year for the event. For the second time, it featured gently used clothing and the amount of clothing was up as well this year, Boland said.

“We had a great response for clothes this year,” she said.

Clothing for the event was donated. Donations and a grant from Elks National Foundation made the backpacks, school supplies and food possible.

As for the origins of the back-to-school event, Boland said the club wanted to find a project they knew they could continue for years to come.

“We wanted to bring in a project we knew there was a need for,” Boland said. “Our members jumped on board. Everyone has been very supportive and helpful.”

Boland went on to say that it’s the members who make the back-to-school event possible.

“We couldn’t do this without our members,” she said. “They’re the ones who donate and make it happen.”

Boland said the Elks will continue to have the annual event as long as the need for it continues. She hopes to see the event grow and eventually include giveaways for older students as well.

While many students lined up on the receiving side of the table, two students helped on the giving side. Madisen and Olyvia Percival, soon-to-be seventh and third grade students, had come along with their father, Tony, to help at the event. It was their first time helping at the giveaway, and both said it is important to do so.

“A lot of kids can’t afford clothes and backpacks and it just really helps them out,” 12-year-old Madisen said.