Fairbury Elks Lodge receives grant to support local school food programs

The Fairbury Elks Lodge #1203 has been awarded a $4,000 Beacon Grant to help with food insecurities.

October 22, 2025Updated: October 22, 2025
News Channel NebraskaBy News Channel Nebraska

FAIRBURY, Neb. — The Fairbury Elks Lodge #1203 has been awarded a $4,000 Beacon Grant from the Elks National Foundation, continuing its long tradition of supporting families in need across Southeast Nebraska.

The grant will help Diller Odell, Thayer Central, Tri County, and Meridian schools provide food for low-income and food-insecure families. Funds will go toward programs like BackPack initiatives and other efforts that supply meals and groceries to children who rely on free or reduced-price lunches during the school week.

“This funding helps ensure that no child goes hungry,” Elks member Robert Kluge said in a statement. “We’re proud to work with our local schools to make a meaningful difference for students and families right here at home.”

In addition to the Beacon Grant, the Elks also received a Spotlight Grant in which they donated $5,000 to the Blue Valley Community Action food pantry. 

The Elks National Foundation offers several types of community grants that allow local lodges to identify and meet pressing local needs. To date, the ENF has provided more than $3.6 million in support to the Fairbury area, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening small-town communities through charitable service.

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