DHS Elks Club gives away 350 backpacks

Students were able to get a free backpack and play games with family and friends today at the Desert Hot Springs Elks Club.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, the Elks Club hosted a backpack giveaway along with the Boys and Girls Club of Coachella Valley.

Maria Jimenez, who is a trustee at Desert Hot Springs Elks Lodge 2639 told News Channel 3 why they host events like this.

“The Elks has this saying, ‘Elks Care’ and we do care, we care for our community, especially our youth, they are our future and so it’s very important for everyone to understand that the Elks is here to help the community and everyone,” Jimenez said.

They purchased 350 backpacks thanks to a grant they received. Families got to play games, get their faces painted and eat cotton candy.
This is the 2nd year the Elks Club has hosted an event like this, and they hope to continue this tradition.