SIDNEY -- The Cheyenne County Veterans Service Office (VSO) recently received a $1,000 donation from the Sidney Elks Lodge No. 1894 to support the purchase of a new Disabled American Veterans (DAV) van. This van will continue to provide free transportation for local veterans to and from the Cheyenne VA Medical Center. 

The VSO is aiming to purchase the new vehicle by January 2026. The total cost of the van is approximately $50,000, with half of the funding provided by the Cheyenne County Veterans Service Office and the other half covered by the DAV. The VSO is at about 90 percent of its fund goal. 

 The DAV van is operated by a dedicated team of volunteer drivers who complete a full screening process, medical examination, and specialized training through the Cheyenne VA Medical Center. Once approved, these individuals become official Federal VA volunteers. Local refresher training is provided every two years by the VSO to ensure safety and consistency. 

The partnership between Elks Lodge 1894 and the VSO continues to thrive. Whether it’s hosting briefings for large groups of veterans or providing food, drinks, and space without hesitation, the Elks are always ready to support Cheyenne County’s veteran community. 

Elks member Erin Huddleston applied for the grant that made this donation possible. Her grandfather, Lewis Huddleston, was a proud Navy veteran. 

If you’re interested in joining the Elks and giving back to your community, contact Cindy Bartling at 308-249-4787 or stop by the lodge to fill out an application. It’s a great way to make a difference right here at home. 

To donate to the DAV van fund, call Cheyenne County VSO office at 308-254-3300 or stop by 920 Jackson St., Sidney.

To learn more about becoming a volunteer DAV van driver or to find out more about the program, contact Veterans Service Office Manager Whitney Whatley at 308-254-3300 or stop by the Cheyenne County Veterans Service Office.