SOUTH PORTLAND – The Maine Elks Association presented a check for $188,082.31 to the Maine Children’s Cancer Program at the 78th annual state convention at the Sheraton Hotel.

In attendance to receive the check were several representatives from the cancer program. The donation represents the culmination of the Maine Elks fundraising efforts for the 2006-2007 fraternal year.

The Maine Children’s Cancer Program is a major project of the association, and this year will mark the 23rd year that the two organizations have worked together. The association celebrated surpassing the $2 million mark in donations to the cancer program at a special reception attended by representatives of the program board of directors, Congressman Michael Michaud, representatives from Sens. Olympia Snowe’s and Susan Collins’ offices.

Elks cancer program Director Donald Richard of New Sharon said it took the state association more than 15 years to raise its first $1 million and only five years to raise the second million. His goal now is to raise another million in four years.

In addition to donating money to the cancer program, Elk Lodges across the state have donated toys and money through their “Owie Box” program. In the program, the children who are being treated for cancer are allowed to select a toy from the “Owie Box” whenever the child undergoes a painful procedure.

A second “Owie Box” was recently implemented at the cancer program to allow teenagers to receive something more age appropriate. The Maine Elks also provide a day of fun and entertainment for the children at the annual Youthfest program held in August.

For more information on the Elks, visit maineelks.org or a local lodge.