PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Presque Isle Elks, Lodge No. 1954, has operated the Furniture Bank for Homeless Veterans from a building on the Presque Isle Industrial Park for the past two years. There, previously homeless veterans who have found residences, have been able to select from a wide array of furniture, including box springs, mattresses, bureaus, desks, nightstands, and lamps, which originated from hotels undergoing major renovations.
Last year, the Elks began providing previously homeless veterans with a Welcome Home Kit, which represents up to $400 in purchases necessary to equip a household. Items eligible for purchase in the Welcome Home Kit include towels, bedding, a bedframe, cookware and utensils, dishes, silverware, cleaning supplies, such as dish soap, windex and general cleaners, paper goods, and sundries, such as salt, pepper, sugar, and condiments.
Beginning May 1, with the proceeds of a grant from the Elks National Foundation, the Presque Isle Elks are able to purchase small appliances, including televisions, stereos, microwaves, and toaster ovens to add to the items available for selection by previously homeless veterans at the Furniture Bank.
It is the goal of the Elks’ Furniture Bank for Homeless Veterans that once a previously homeless veteran has found an apartment, or single-family residence, the bank can help supply the veterans with sufficient items that the veteran will feel that he or she is home and can remain in that home.
For further information in relation to the Presque Isle Elks’ Furniture Bank for Homeless Veterans, please contact Gregory Daniels at 764-3236.
