A tireless advocate for the homeless, Peter Costa of New Bedford, was named citizen of the year on Wednesday night by the Wareham-New Bedford Lodge of Elks #73.

Costa, along with two others, were recognized during the Elks’ annual Appreciation Night held at the lodge on Cranberry Highway.

Exalted Ruler John Wybraniec said Costa has been involved in helping New Bedford’s homeless for the past few years. He’s provided rides, new clothes and organized others to “make sure the homeless are taken care of.”

Wybraniec pointed out that Costa led the effort that caused the city to change its overflow shelter policy. Now, overflow shelters are opened for the homeless when the temperature drops to 28 degrees. Previously, those shelters were opened only after the temperature dropped to 10 degrees.

Additionally, Rick Duffy was named officer of the year and Sue Gifford was named member of the year.

Wybraniec said Duffy was chosen for his volunteer work and promoting the lodge’s mission. Gifford earned the award for organizing and running the lodge’s weekly meat raffle, which serves as a fundraiser and popular social activity for many in town.