Elks $6G toy drive makes for a sweet Christmas haul for Rochester's neediest kids

ROCHESTER - The Rochester Elks have supported the local Salvation Army's Christmas Toy Drive for many years, and this year was no exception.

According to Elks Chairperson Lynn Welch, this year marked their biggest and most successful effort yet. Rochester Elks members donated more than $5,750 worth of toys, gift cards, toiletries, shoes, and cash to help less fortunate families in the Greater Rochester area.

Monique Gowell, Social Services Director for the Rochester Salvation Army, expressed her gratitude, stating that the contributions from local charitable organizations such as the Elks, along with many others, will ensure that more than 130 families in need will have a very merry Christmas.

On Dec. 15 several Elks members and officers transported the donated items to the Salvation Army facility at 10 Olde Farm Lane in Rochester.

To learn more about the Elks and their charitable initiatives, visit www.elks.org. For more information about the Rochester Salvation Army, visit https://easternusa.salvationarmy.org/northern-new-england/rochester/