The Wareham/New Bedford Elks Lodge #73 weekly meat raffle pulled double duty for the past four weeks, giving attendees a chance to support area homeless and the lodge at the same time.

Extra raffle tickets were given to those who brought socks and gloves that were donated to Turning Point and Father Bill’s & MainSpring. Both groups provide services for the homeless. Representatives from the two organizations collected the donations on Thursday night for distribution.

“It’s just so heartwarming to see everything the people who support us have done,” said Sue Gifford, the lodge’s acting exalted ruler. Gifford said this marked the first time the Elks turned its meat raffle into an opportunity to benefit Turning Point and Father Bill's & MainSpring.

Though socks may seem inconsequential, lodge Treasurer Bonnie Cottult said they are a big deal for many homeless.

“Just having a dry, clean pair of socks is a gift to them,” said Cottult.

Another important, often overlooked item, for the homeless is feminine hygiene products, said Cottult. To support area homeless women, the Elks raised $500 used to purchased 3,000 individual feminine hygiene products.

Cottult said once those are delivered they will be brought to the Church of the Nazarene for the Nights of Hospitality program. That program provides overnight shelter during winter for the homeless.

“One of the last things these women need to worry about is health issues related to not having feminine hygiene products,” said Cottult.

Thursday’s donation comes on the heels of another charitable drive by the Elks. The day before, Gifford and other Elks presented the Massachusetts State Police a check for $1,340. The money will benefit the State Police’s Toys for Tots program, which purchases toys for children in need across the South Coast.