11/04/2026
NOVEMBER IS ELKS VETERANS REMEMBRANCE MONTH
CHICAGO, IL — November 3, 2026
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks observes November as Elks Veterans Remembrance Month, but Elks provide aid to veterans year-round through the Elks National Veterans Service Commission.
In 2016, the ENVSC launched the Welcome Home Kit program, which provides veterans exiting homelessness with the supplies they need to turn their house into a home. Welcome Home Kits can contain small pieces of furniture and appliances, kitchenware, cleaning supplies, and even a bed. Since 2016, Elks have provided Welcome Home Kits to more than 26,300 veterans.
“This past week, our Lodge was asked to assist three veterans who were finally transitioning into a place they could call home,” says April Libby, the project manager at Portland, Maine, Elks Lodge No. 188. “I have included beds for each of them in our requests, and I’ve been reaching out to Lodge members to find furniture and other household donations.”
Like many Lodges, the Portland Lodge works with local social workers to identify veterans who would benefit from the Elks’ Welcome Home Kit program.
“Being able to provide a bed, a table, a chair, or even something as simple as a set of dishes may seem small,” says Libby, “but to a veteran who has been without a home and has very little, these things can make an enormous difference.”
This is just one of the many Elks programs that aid veterans across the country.
Every month of the year, but especially in November, Elks stand united in gratitude and support of veterans, upholding the pledge: “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.”
With nearly 800,000 members nationwide, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America’s largest and most active fraternal organizations. Standing on the pillars of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity, Elks Lodges are more than just buildings; they’re places where neighbors come together, families share meals, and children grow up. Learn more at elks.org. For membership information, visit join.elks.org.
