WELCOME HOME INITIATIVE

Welcome Home Initiative

Every night, as many as 40,000 veterans are living on the streets. Each with a different story, they all shared a common pledge: to support and defend this country. Their service is done. Now, it’s the Elks’ turn to serve.

In partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Elks National Veterans Service Commission has pledged to help end veteran homelessness, and ensure that every veteran has the safe, stable home they deserve. To accomplish this goal, we need your help!

Read more about the program below to get started. Click here to download an instructional booklet about the program to share with others.

Welcome Home Kits

Most veterans move into their homes with nothing. Elks can help veterans establish their homes by building Welcome Home Kits. Generally, this kit would include some small furniture, kitchenware, and cleaning supplies. Items can be new or used, donated or purchased.

The ENVSC will reimburse up to $300 per kit and up to $400 for each kit that includes a bed (dependent on corresponding receipts).

Welcome Home Kit Forms are online only. You can access the form at the link below or at elks.org/vets/kits.

A kit must include a variety of items. It may not include just one of two items.
Kits are intended exclusively for veterans exiting homelessness and moving into new homes.
Beds may not comprise more than $300 of any kit.
Gift cards may not comprise more than $25 of any kit. Food may not comprise more than $25 of any kit.

Ready to get started...

Contact the New Jersey State Veterans Welcome Home Kit Coordinator:

Kelly Mazzocchi at njelksnvsc@gmail.com