COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER AS ELKS LODGES NATIONWIDE MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN DECEMBER

As the holiday season approaches, local Elks Lodges from coast to coast, spanning every state in the nation, as well as Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and the Panama Canal Zone, are gearing up for a month of dedicated community service. This December, Elks Lodges will extend a helping hand to thousands of financially struggling families, ensuring they receive essential food baskets and presents during the festive season.

Since 1868, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elk has been proud to be a community partner in our communities.  Today, we have eleven lodges throughout Mississippi: 

• Biloxi Lodge 606
• Canton Lodge 458
• Clarksdale Lodge 977
• Corinth Lodge 2573
• Greenville Lodge 148 
• Greenwood Lodge 854
• Gulfport Lodge 978
• Hattiesburg Lodge 599
• Ocean Springs Lodge 2501
• Pascagoula Lodge 1120
• Vicksburg Lodge 95

In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, Elk volunteers will visit hospitalized Veterans, expressing the organization's unwavering commitment to never forget those who have protected our freedoms. Elks support active military forces and Veterans through various initiatives, providing food, comfort care, therapeutic items, and gifts. The organization also hosts holiday celebrations and recreational activities at military bases and hospitals, standing ready to fulfill any need. In the past year alone, Elks' contributions to the nation's heroes amounted to over $40 million, benefiting more than 300 Veterans Administration Medical Centers, clinics, and state care facilities.

December also marks the acceptance of thousands of scholarship applications from high school seniors nationwide, with the Elks disbursing nearly $5 million annually to support educational pursuits. Additionally, the Elks Community Investment Program will allocate almost $16 million towards enriching communities, highlighting the organization's commitment to fostering growth and development.

With nearly 1,800 Elks Lodges nationwide and a membership totaling around 800,000, the Elks organization plays a pivotal role in community service. Elk members, who must be American citizens at least 21 years of age and believe in God, embody the principles of charity and volunteerism that have defined the organization for 156 years. To learn more about the Elks organization and join the mission of service, visit www.elks.org. 

For membership information, visit Join.Elks.Org.