The Cranberry Elks Lodge came together to support both its community and itself during the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic challenges many faced as a result of it.

CRANBERRY TWP — With various nonprofits and community groups helping out during the pandemic, the Cranberry Elks Lodge is no exception.

During the first COVID-19-associated lockdown in March 2020, the Cranberry Elks prepared and delivered meals to essential workers, including police, EMS and fire workers. The group also presented monetary donations throughout the year to local charitable organizations.

In December, members donated hundreds of gifts to veterans at the Abie Abraham Butler VA Health Care Center and to families at the Victim Outreach Intervention Center, or VOICe.

The Cranberry lodge also launched a member-to-member program to assist members who may have fallen on difficult times because of injury, ailment or other hardship.

This all occurred despite a dip in revenue the lodge experienced, alongside area nonprofits and businesses. Because the Elks couldn’t get revenue from its bar, kitchen or rental banquet hall, members rallied to make sure their organization would survive. They made voluntary contributions and participated in fundraisers to recoup some losses.

And, in less than two months’ time, the members and volunteers coordinated the MASK-R-AID Rock-A-Thon fundraiser, with raffle prizes, food, a bake sale and live music, and raised more than $30,000.

The Cranberry Elks Lodge came together to support both its community and itself during the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic challenges many faced as a result of it. Submitted photo.