LARAMIE, WYOMING: The local Elks lodge, No. 582 was able to make $1,000 donations to both the Laramie Soup Kitchen and Interfaith-Good Samaritan to assist these organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ted Cramer, Executive Director of the Laramie Soup Kitchen said, “during the pandemic we have seen a decrease in food donations and without volunteers we have had to increase the use of paid staff.” The Laramie Soup Kitchen has been averaging 85 meals served Monday through Friday during the pandemic. “This donation will assist us in our provision of hot meals and staples to anyone who is hungry.” Added Mr. Cramer.
Mike Vercauteren, Executive Director of Interfaith-Good Samaritan said, “this donation is immeasurable. We don’t know what this pandemic means in the coming months for the people we help. From rental assistance, paying bills to providing food we are doing anything we can do to help people avoid becoming homeless. This donation is greatly appreciated and will go a long way in our efforts.”
Presentation of Donation to Interfaith-Good Samaritan (pictured from left to right: Mike Vercauteren (Interfaith) and Sue Allen (Elks Lodge 582)
The local Elks Lodge was able to make this donation through a grant from the Elks National Foundation – Community Investments Program – Gratitude Grant. This years’ Gratitude Grant was adapted in response to COVID-19 encouraging lodges to apply for donations to food pantries and other organizations in the community that are better equipped to directly serve the populations in need as we work our way through this pandemic. Lodge 582 Exalted Ruler Thyra Page said, “these two organizations are perfect for these donations and our lodge is excited about our ability to help them serve those in need during this crisis.”
Who are Elks? Elks are community. No matter where you go in the country, an Elks Lodge is right around the corner. With more than 770,000 members and 1,800 Lodges nationwide, Elks are providing charitable services that help build stronger communities. Interested in joining the Elks and making a difference here in Laramie? Call the lodge at 307-742-2024