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Donation

Elk member Shawn Tessier, fourth from right, organized the basket donation for the last three years.  The club distributed 134 food baskets for Christmas. Courtesy photo.

 

 

PUTNAM — Dec. 17, a group of 50 volunteers gathered to continue a holiday tradition. The Putnam Elks of Lodge #574 distributed food baskets to local families, with 134 baskets and 530 people served. The tradition, which began in 1957, is just one example of how the Elks give back to the community through service and donations. 

Like previous years, the 2016 holiday basket distribution was made possible through funds raised during the year at the club and through Elks grants. Shawn Tessier, who has led the basket drive for several years, said, “Over the last 59 years, we have had many people in charge of the holiday baskets. I have been lucky enough to have the reins for the last three years and there is no warmer feeling than bringing food and a smile to people in the community that might need help around Christmas. I love it.”

To identify families in need, the Elks partner with other local organizations such as TEEG, Putnam Housing Authority, Putnam Family Resource Center, and Pomfret Community School. Tessier said, “I tally all the families by family size and I order the baskets from a local supermarket. We typically pick up the baskets on the Saturday before Christmas and bring them back to the lodge.” 

Most baskets are picked up by the families with Elks making home deliveries to those without transportation. 

Earl Rosebrooks, who recently became a member in 2016, wants to make the public aware that the Elks are responsible for a variety of “benevolent” activities throughout the year. 

“As a new member of Lodge #574, it has been wonderful to be a part of a group that cares so much about the residents of northeastern Connecticut.” 

Tessier added his gratitude for the collective efforts of the Elks, “All my thanks goes out to all the members of the Putnam Elks #574. Every member helps in some small way and they deserve the credit. Elks care. Elks share.”