LUSK – The Elks Lodge 1797 Elves are already preparing for the holidays by gathering donations of toys and food for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Lusk Elks Secretary Jessie Walduck told the Herald that she and a team of volunteers are preparing for the holidays by taking donations to provide Christmas presents and food for families in need. Assisting Walduck are Debbie Girone, Tabitha Nelson, Dick and Jennifer Penfield.

According to Walduck, the Lusk Elks Lodge receives grant funds from the Elks National Foundation. The funds from the grants buy $2,000 in toys and $3,000 in groceries to help ease the burden of those in need through Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Elks’ Elves begin by sending vouchers that can be picked up at the Lusk Chamber Office and the Department of Family Services. Demographic information that must be disclosed on the form includes the number of children in the household and their ages and their genders.

During the holiday season, the Lusk Elks Lodge has a Christmas dinner that is open to the community. Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause (Dave and Barb Crofutt) and their elves (Walduck and Girone) make an appearance, too. Children can sit on Santa’s lap and give him their wishlist. Each child is given a gift during the dinner, too.

If anyone would like to donate or volunteer to help with the Elks Elves, call Jessie Walduck at 307-340-0097. Any and all help is welcome