10/12/2026
Unlocking the Welcome Home Kit Program, One More Step to a Better Lodge Series - Article 9
by Alicia Dunbar PDD
CEA Veterans Chair
When a veteran moves out of homelessness and into a new residence, they often cross the threshold with little more than a duffel bag. While housing programs get the roof over their heads, turning four bare walls into a functioning, comfortable home takes resources—and that’s where the Elks step in.
Through the Elks National Veterans Service Commission (ENVSC), the Welcome Home Kit Reimbursement Program allows every Lodge in Connecticut to directly transform a veteran’s life.
If your Lodge is looking for a straightforward, high-impact project to engage members and fulfill our pledge that “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them,” taking advantage of this program is your easiest next step.
How the Reimbursement Works:
The ENVSC makes it simple for Lodges to purchase and deliver essential household items. Instead of relying solely on donated goods, your Lodge buys brand-new necessities, submits the receipts, and gets reimbursed.
Standard Reimbursement: Up to $400 per kit. With a Bed Included: Up to $600 per kit if purchasing a bed/mattress.
No Cap on Kits: There is currently no limit on how many kits a Lodge can assemble throughout the year—it is entirely based on local need and your volunteer capacity.
What Goes into a Welcome Home Kit? A kit should be well-rounded to supply a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and living space. Common items include:
Kitchen: Dishes, pots and pans, silverware, toaster, coffee maker.
Bathroom: Towels, shower curtain, toiletries, trash can.
Bedroom: Pillows, sheet sets, blankets.
Cleaning: Broom, mop, laundry detergent, dish soap, paper towels.
How Connecticut Lodges Make It Happen
Lodges across the Connecticut Elks Association—including New Britain #957, Hartford #19, Winsted #844, Bridgeport #36, and Branford #1939 and others across our districts—regularly leverage ENVSC grant funding and Welcome Home reimbursements to support local veterans transitioning into permanent housing.
3 Steps to Get Your Lodge Started
1. Connect with a Local Partner: Reach out to your nearest VA Medical Center or a local veterans’ shelter. Let them know your Lodge is ready to provide Welcome Home Kits for veterans moving into housing.
2. Shop & Assemble: Once you receive a referral, coordinate with the caseworker (or veteran) to see what specific items they need. Go shopping, keep itemized receipts, and pack up the supplies.
3. Submit for Reimbursement: Fill out the short 1-page form at elks.org/vets, attach your receipts, and submit it within 3 months of purchase. The ENVSC will mail a reimbursement check straight to your Lodge.
Take the step today: Appoint a Welcome Home Kit chair in your Lodge, contact your local VA or facility, and start turning bare apartments into warm homes for Connecticut veterans.
For complete program guidelines and reimbursement forms, visit elks.org/vets or contact the ENVSC office. You can also reach out to State Chair Alicia Dunbar, PDD with any questions.
