One of Iola’s most enduring holiday charitable efforts had perhaps the biggest year in its history Saturday.
Iola Elks Lodge No. 569 provided food baskets for 70 area families, nearly twice as many as in years past.
“Our goal is to help as many people as we can, and there seemed to be a big need this year,” reported Teresa Grewing, one of the organizers.
The gift baskets were handed out Saturday afternoon.
Fortunately, the Elks were well-prepared, Grewing said, because it was evident early on this year more people needed help.
The lodge upped the number of fundraisers through the year to ensure members had enough funds on hand for more food.
“And it’s not just Iola,” Grewing said.
Food baskets went to families as far away as Elsmore, Moran, Neosho Falls, Piqua and Moran.
Elks help local families in need
