Sahuarita, Ariz., Lodge No. 2851 used its Gratitude Grant to support a local food pantry in a unique way. When Elks learned that the pantry was often low on baby products, it held a “baby shower” for the pantry and invited the community to purchase food, supplies and clothes for the pantry’s youngest clients. The project was such a success that it is now an annual event.

In Thanks
Mary Jane Goodrick, Executive Director of the pantry, writes, “We meet people every day who struggle to provide for themselves and their families. Sometimes they come to us after they have exhausted all their other options. It is our job to help them when they need it most. The Baby Shower hosted by the Sahuarita Elks in August did just that! You recognized that there was a gap in the services that the food bank provides and you set out to fill that gap. Thank you for your outstanding effort and generosity that resulted in 1,600 pounds of baby food, formula, cereal, juice, diapers, and baby wipes.

It seemed like the 'Never Ending Story' when we began to receive the donations the Elks collected at the Baby Shower. We started distributing the food and diapers as soon as it arrived and we still have enough to get us through the end of year. We have never been able to distribute baby food and products that consistently before.

Through education, advocacy, programs and services we work toward a permanent end to hunger in our community. The Elks’ support is part of that solution and we cannot thank you enough. It brings hope and change to struggling families with young children in Green Valley and Sahuarita. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our youngest clients.”

Below, Elks pose with some shower gifts for the pantry.

The ENF awards $2,000 Gratitude Grants to Lodges to directly address local needs. Lodges are eligible to apply for Gratitude Grants after meeting the GER’s per-capita goal. To find out more about Gratitude Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community.