Veterans Service Committee member reports about 200 veterans at Elks Lodge resource fair; lists donations and upcoming events

Belinda, a Veterans Service Committee representative at the Elks Lodge, told the O'Fallon Veterans Commission on April 20 that the Elks' March 14 resource fair drew "about 200 veterans" and helped several register with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The update provided a detailed list of charitable disbursements and planned events. "We gave $1,000 for the Missouri Veterans Home at Christmas time. We gave $1,000 to Quilts of Valor. We gave $1,000 to the Patriot Pantry at Jefferson Barracks," Belinda said, adding the Elks donated $1,000 to the Veterans Community Project (the tiny-home site north of Jefferson Barracks) and to other local veteran organizations. She said a marine-focused group used $1,000 to buy two laptop computers so veterans could stay connected with their counselors.

The committee also announced upcoming activities: a drug-awareness event on May 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Elks Lodge featuring the Saint Charles County Ambulance District, the Missouri Institute for Mental Health and the O'Fallon Police and Drug Task Force; a Flag Day service on June 14 with multiple veteran organizations and local first responders participating; a barbecue for Family Day at the Missouri Veterans Home on June 27 organized with the Saint Louis Barbeque Society and the Marine Corps League; a designer-handbag fundraiser on Sept. 12 (tickets $35 in advance, $45 at the door); and an Oct. 10 Texas Hold'em charity event in partnership with Combat Veterans of America.

Belinda said the Elks plan to "adopt a veteran" this year to provide direct assistance — from financial help to companionship — and asked anyone aware of veterans in need to contact the committee so they may be considered for assistance.

The update also noted logistical details: the Elks' program year runs from March through April, and organizers will circulate flyers about fundraising and volunteer opportunities at the next commission meeting.

Because the commission did not have a quorum at the meeting, no votes were taken on any items discussed during Belinda's update.

The commission did not set formal action during the meeting; the committee will provide flyers and further event details at future meetings.