The annual Veterans Stand Down was held on April 6th at the Farm Show Complex.
The Stand Down is open to all Veterans in need, serving mostly unhoused and at risk.
West Shore-Harrisburg Elks Lodge 2257 supported the Annual Stand Down for many years. Using donations and grant money to buy needed supplies, Lodge #2257 gave approximately $5000 of clothing, and personal care items. This year extra supplies were donated from Hampden Township and Artistic Imprints, included shirts, jackets, Boomba socks, Harry’s razors and plethora of personal care items.
A full circle moment happened when Angela McClellan met Craig Chores and his service dog Ace. in 2023, the committee had created 15 service dog backpacks, containing supplies and treats for service dogs. But until the event, no committee members had been able to meet any of the recipients. They are pictured in the VOPA tiny house display.
The Veteran’s committee, led by committee chair Jason Yerg, also used a $2000 Spotlight grant from the Elks National Foundation to purchase winder coats, t-shirts, underwear and sweat hoodies and pants.
Elks National Foundation (ENF) awards grants to Lodge who meet their annual per capital giving, of $4.80 per person. Please consider donating to ENF to help keep the good work going. Donate here
West Shore-Harrisburg Elks were just one of many vendors offering a plethora of services including:
*Job offerings from various businesses around the state
*Food from Central PA Food bank and other non-profits
*VA Health Care and VA Benefits
*Alternate Health Care Information, including Pennsylvania Warhorse offering free equine therapy for Veteran’s
*Housing & Employment Assistance
*Mental Wellness
*Legal Services
Special thanks to all the Elks who came out to volunteer and fellowship. Check committee currently meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6 pm.