Sanford Lodge hosted its third annual Family Fun Day and back-to-school supply drive giveaway July 30. This event was again made possible with an Elks National Foundation Beacon and Gratitude combo grant and a state association matching grant. The lodge gave out 312 prefilled backpacks, complete with all supplies from the elementary school supply list. Also included was a card for a free frozen custard, which was donated from Culver’s. The event also offered lunch, crafts and a balloon artist, as well as special stations from Sanford Police Department, Seminole County Sheriff’s office, and Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services, with therapists Beth Thiers and Althea Montgomery. Attendance grows each year; this year there were more than 500 people in attendance, with a line out the door.

Pictured are the many event volunteers — members, spouses, children of members, volunteers, and FECTS therapists. Also pictured at the backpack station are Felicia Reber, spouse; Alessandra Equizi, granddaughter of Kathy and Donald Soderblom; Kathy Soderblom, spouse; and Donald Soderblom, member.