Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91 continues, for the second year, their “Home Sweet Home” program to help local veterans who need minor improvements and maintenance on their homes. This opportunity is made possible through the Elks National Foundation Community Investment Program Impact grant.
According to Chattanooga Elks Loyal Knight and Project Coordinator Bill Cobb, the qualifications for veterans to apply for this project are limited to:
- Veterans must own their home
- Veterans with low income
- Type of improvements and/or maintenance needed
- Demonstrate the inability to make repairs themselves
Last year, the Chattanooga Elks Lodge served 12 local veterans, repairing outside decks, building wheelchair ramps, repairing minor electrical issues, repairing windows and painting among other repairs and improvements.
“We encourage veterans with low incomes to contact the Chattanooga Elks Lodge,” said Mr. Cobb. “Based on requests for assistance from local veterans specifically looking for resources and funding for home repairs, the Veteran Committee of Chattanooga Elks Lodge has identified Elks members willing to donate their time and professional expertise to help with repairs necessary to make a qualified veteran’s home safe and livable.
"We have a great team of volunteers both members of our Lodge and non-members. It is our goal to help as many of our local veterans as possible. Just one way we can give back to those who have given so much for our freedoms and our community.”
Exalted Ruler/President of the Chattanooga Elks Lodge David Thompson said, “We are extremely excited to continue this project to provide vital hands-on help to our veterans in need. We are one of 14 Lodges in the United States that received this Community Impact Grant from Elks National Foundation which promotes service and volunteerism.”
Helping veterans has been a longtime focus of the Chattanooga Elks Lodge through various projects such as food drives, providing work tools, clothing and personal hygiene products, gas cards, housing assistance and supporting programs that purchase rescue dogs for veterans.
Elks National Foundation Impact Grants are designed to set a standard of excellence in community leadership through service. These grants are offered to Lodges working to make a significant and meaningful difference in the community through charitable projects.
To apply, email Cyndi Hurtt at cjhurtt57@gmail.com or elks91homesweethome@gmail.com and describe your needs or call Ms. Hurtt at 423-280-2353 or the Chattanooga Elks Lodge at 423 894-8850 between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., leaving your name and number to be contacted by the Veterans Committee.