Riveridge — The Vancouver Elks Lodge donated more than 280 boxes of food to families in need on Dec. 17 as part of a tradition that stretches back 60 years. The Elks collect canned goods at events all year and host fundraisers to help fill out the boxes. Volunteers sorted the mountains of canned goods and pantry staples to assemble the boxes, which also came with bread, potatoes, milk and a turkey to round out a holiday meal. The boxes go to local families, who are connected with the lodge through various local agencies. This year, the lodge had a record number of volunteers, including volunteers from the Sea Scouts, the Young Marines and Cub Scout Troop No. 823. On Dec. 18, the lodge also hosted a Children’s Christmas Party with more than 100 children in attendance. They all were allowed to pick a toy from a large selection of donated items, and visited with Santa, who handed out goodie bags. The party also featured the Shriner Clowns, who were on hand to make balloon characters, face painting and removable tattoos.