Sue Miller accepted a $500 donation from Auxiliary member Connie Houle on behalf of the Bethany Lutheran Church Free Store. (Courtesy photo)

ESCANABA — The Escanaba Elks #354 Auxiliary recently distributed $4,000 in charitable donations to eight local organizations serving residents throughout Delta County and the Upper Peninsula.

As part of the auxiliary’s annual charitable giving program, each organization received a $500 donation to support its mission and ongoing community programs. The donations were made possible through the auxiliary’s successful fundraising efforts, including its annual golf outing, crate raffle and in-house raffle.

Sue Miller accepted a $500 donation from Auxiliary member Connie Houle on behalf of the Bethany Lutheran Church Free Store. The Free Store provides clothing, household items, and other necessities to individuals and families in need throughout the community.

Camp Harstad received a $500 donation from Escanaba Elks #354 Auxiliary President Jayne Church. Todd Myrick accepted the donation on behalf of the camp, which provides a fun and inclusive Day Camp experience for individuals ages six to 17 with mild to moderate special needs. This exciting camp offers a supportive environment where campers can enjoy classic summer camp activities while building friendships and confidence.

The U.P. Human Trafficking Task Force also received a $500 donation. Tiffany Smith accepted the contribution from Auxiliary President Jayne Church. The organization focuses on education, awareness, prevention and support services related to human trafficking throughout the Upper Peninsula.

Additional $500 donations were presented to five other worthy organizations:

– Enhance Escanaba works to beautify and improve the Escanaba area through community enhancement projects, public space improvements, and initiatives that help make the city an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

– Delta County Cancer Alliance assists local cancer patients and their families by helping with expenses and providing support services during treatment.

– Delta County Victim Services is a volunteer group of people dedicated to helping victims survive a crisis or crime against them. They are the “Helping Hands” of the police, fire and medical personnel. They free the departments up to do their jobs without leaving the victim “out in the cold” or ignored. The objective is to avoid further victimization.

– Wings of Mercy provides free air transportation for individuals who must travel for specialized medical treatment that is not available locally.

– Tri-County Safe Harbor provides services and support for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

“The Escanaba Elks #354 Auxiliary is proud to support organizations that make a positive difference in our communities,” said Auxiliary President Jayne Church. “These donations are made possible through the generosity of our members and the success of our fundraising efforts throughout the year.”

The Escanaba Elks #354 Auxiliary currently has 82 members and supports numerous charitable organizations and community projects annually through fundraising events and volunteer service.