Photo submitted

This Christmas, Middlesboro Elks Lodge No. 119 again used a $1,500 grant from the Elks National Foundation to prepare 40 food boxes for distribution to those in need in the area. As they did last year, the Elks selected the faith-based social service organization, Cooperative Christian Ministry (CCM) to choose the recipients, thereby assuring that only those with the most need would receive them. After assembly, on Dec.17 several Elk volunteers delivered the food boxes to CCM for later distribution to families and individuals before Christmas. Pictured with part of the boxes at CCM’s headquarters on Cumberland Avenue are from left, CCM Associate Director Ashly Witt, Director Eric Martin and Elk President Tommy Harrell. In addition to the boxes as shown, families received large hams and milk in separate containers. The Elks express appreciation to CCM and Food City for their assistance.