Elks donate to Summer Food Program

VW Elks information

Van Wert Lodge 1197, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, recently donated $500 to the YWCA of Van Wert County.  The monies are earmarked for the YWCA Summer Food Program.

This is the 17th year the YWCA has run this important program. The monies are from a Gratitude Grant the lodge received from the Elks National Foundation for achieving the required goal of donations at $4.50 per member.

The program includes breakfast and lunch and a day full of recreational and educational activities.   During the eight weeks of the program last year the YWCA served 11,473 meals to children of Van Wert County. This year the YWCA expects to serve even more meals and register more children due to the struggling economy in Van Wert County. During the first three days 1,135 meals were served to the kids.

In previous years, the program has been free for all participants. Due to the increasing operating costs expected, the YWCA is asking for a nominal donation for the recreational portion per family.  Since some families cannot afford to make this donation, the monies donated by Van Wert Elks Lodge will help to feed these children.

Van Wert Elks Lodge is happy to be able to assist the YWCA with this important summer program.