October has been a month of giving during the hard times of the pandemic for the Rockland Elks. With grant money awarded to the local chapter by the Elks National Foundation, members have been donating funds to local charities.

Recently Pam Heal Exalted Ruler of the Rockland Elks presented Rhonda Nordstrom from the AIO Food and Energy Assistance a donation of $2000.

Part of the Elks goals is charity, and this is just one of their charities, according to the Elks, in a news release.

AIO is working to address food and energy insecurity in Knox County.

“Working hand in hand with our partner organizations, we strive to provide the services that are vital to a family’s health and well-being. AIO’s two core programs — Food Assistance and Energy Assistance — ensure that Knox County residents who are food or energy insecure receive the support they need,” said AIO, in the Elks’ news release.

AIO’s Food Assistance programs include the Food Pantry and the Weekend Meal Program (formerly known as Backpack), which ensure access to food for children and families when they need it. 

The Rockland Elks presented a check to Helen Rogers, from the Midcoast Community Action.

Midcoast Maine Community Action (MMCA) empowers people to build better lives for stronger communities. The agency connects the community with resources that promote health and quality of life, education and economic independence. MMCA supports regional activities which encourage economic sustainability and social equity within the Midcoast area.

Rockland Elks Exalted Ruler Pam Heal also presented a donation for $1750 to Meredith Bailey, program director of the Knox Clinic. 

The Knox Clinic, a volunteer group of doctors, nurses and helpers  assisting the low income, uninsured and underinsured community members in the Knox County area with some basic health care needs such as routine physical exams, blood pressure checks, vaccines, dental cleanings and dental filling.