Elks Club gives a little back to community

By Jamie Rieger
Local groups and projects were the beneficiaries of the Elks Club when they presented their cheques to three organizations and one community project last week.
Each year, the Bow Island Elks Club makes financial contributions to Meals on Wheels, Victim Services, and the local food bank, but this year have added the Downtown Park project, for which they are partnering with Lions Club and the Town.
The Food Bank received a cheque for $5,000, which will go towards food purchases for residents in need of help with groceries.
“The Elks Club is one of the largest supporters of the food bank,” said Alan Hyland, who received the cheque.
Meals on Wheels received $3,000 that will be used to help cover the cost of providing approximately 2,200 meals each year. The meals are made at Pleasant View Lodge, then distributed there, as well as the manor, and to residents in the community.
“These meals allow them to eat healthy and stay in their homes longer,” said Maryanne Bouw, who received cheques for Meals on Wheels and for Victim Services, which received $2,500 that will be used for operating expenses.
Darla Stensrud received a cheque for $6,000 for the Downtown Park project.
“Without the sponsorship from the Elks, the park project would not go through. These funds will be put to good use,” she said.