Pat Cox
Christmas came early this year for students from Roadrunner Elementary School in the Marana Unified School District. Members of Catalina Mountain Elks Lodge No. 2815 accompanied thirty-five children from families in need on a shopping spree at JC Penney in the Tucson Mall on Saturday, December 13. The Elks’ donations provided each child with $140 worth of shoes and clothing of their choice.
Following the shopping spree, the students attended a holiday luncheon party at the lodge in Catalina. Santa and Mrs. Claus (lodge members Tom Teal and Jan Trudeau) arrived at the party in a Golder Ranch Fire District fire truck with a bagful of toys. After opening gifts, the children played games organized by co-chairwoman Joyce Garcia, while co-chairman Robert Hurt took pictures of the activities. As they were boarding the bus for home, the students received a bag of school supplies and assorted treats.
It was a special day for the children and a gratifying experience for the volunteers as well. School Principal Kristina Brewer said, “We are so fortunate that the Elks Lodge members continue to make a difference in the lives of our students during the holiday season. Their heartfelt generosity brings the true holiday spirit to our families and demonstrates to our students the importance of giving to others.”
Thirty-five children got to shop with Santa and Elks Lodge members.