Elks collecting winter clothing

Clark Fork Valley Elks Lodge in Thompson Falls is again collecting winter clothing for local children this year. With the Keep 'Em Warm program, Elks members are collecting items including coats, boots, mittens, gloves, socks and snow pants. Items in new or good used condition can be dropped at boxes at the Elks Lodge or Harvest Foods.

Michelle Blackstone, exalted ruler of the Clark Fork Valley Elks Lodge, said the items will be distributed to kids throughout Sanders County. “With the cold coming so early, we are trying to get items distributed early, with assistance from the local schools,” Blackstone said. "The Elks have long stood by the tradition of charitable acts and ensuring that our communities are assisted in any way possible, but in my opinion, the most important of all is making sure the children are warm and fed."

Deadline for donations for the Keep 'Em Warm program is November 8. For more information, contact the Elks Lodge at 827-7770.