Sun City Elks Lodge volunteers held a two-month-long “Back-To-School” supplies program to support three Peoria District elementary schools.

Elks knew that in donating school supplies they were helping students obtain the tools they need to learn throughout the school year. They also recognized they would be helping to relieve some of the stress and financial burdens that have fallen on teachers to fill the gap for students who are without the means to purchase necessary supplies. Even the most inventive teachers aren’t effective if their students don’t have the supplies to work.

The Sun City Elks used an Elks National Foundation $3,500 grant for purchases combined with member donations. Boxes of new school supplies, clothing and nutritional snacks were delivered to Ira A. Murphy, Peoria Elementary, and Desert Harbor schools. District officials studies have proven that when students have their own school supplies, their grades and classroom behavior improve. They become more excited about school and learning, according to the studies.

Mary Sauro, the Back-To-School Project chairperson, ensured classrooms, music and art departments, the nurses offices, and special education would receive donations.