In Forsyth County, many homeless veterans live in the shadows – in tents, wooded areas or makeshift camps. Now, thanks to the Winston-Salem Elks Lodge #449 and a $1,000 Freedom Grant from the Elks National Foundation, several of those veterans will sleep a little warmer and safer.
The Freedom Grant is one of five specialized grants offered through the Elks’ Community Investments Program, designed to support veterans and military members in need. Each year, Lodge #449 applies for every available grant, seeking ways to uplift individuals across their tri-county region.
“Our focus is on helping those who fall into our criteria and especially our veterans,” said Elks Lodge #449 Grants Committee Chair Randy Zigmund. “The Freedom Grant allows us to directly assist the unsheltered veterans in our own community.”
Partnering With Purpose
For this year’s Freedom Grant, the lodge again chose to partner with Habit Missions Ministry, part of the Watchmen of the Streets organization. The nonprofit conducts outreach to homeless populations in the area, including veterans, offering meals, prayer and essential survival items.
Rather than just writing a check, the Elks took a hands-on approach. The grant lead joined Al Burchett, president of Habit Missions, on a local shopping trip to purchase gear that would offer immediate relief. Together, they visited several stores, maximizing value, while selecting supplies most needed for the outdoors; three- and four-person tents, sleeping bags, thermal blankets and stove propane cylinders.
“We didn’t want to just drop off a check and walk away,” Randy explained. “We wanted to make sure the items truly served the people for whom they were intended.”
Meeting a Critical Need
The donations came at the perfect time. “It was a surprise and a much needed one,” said Al. “Our supply stock was running low, and we depend on contributions like this to keep going.”
Habit Missions serves approximately 20 to 25 homeless veterans regularly. Their needs are extensive – shelter from the weather, warmth, a way to cook or heat food and basic hygiene. Many also face mental health struggles, especially PTSD, making long-term stability even harder to achieve.
“These items may seem small, but for someone sleeping outside, a new tent or warm blanket can be the difference between hope and despair,” commented Al.
Though unsheltered veterans are often spread out and not clustered in specific areas, they tend to be respected leaders within camps due to their survival skills and past military experience. The Elks’ donation gave them much needed tools for both physical protection and emotional support.
Living the Elks’ Pledge
The project reflects the national Elks pledge: “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks will never forget them.” Through local and national initiatives, Elks across the country provide aid, connection and advocacy for veterans and their families.
“The grant is a living example of our mission. We don’t just honor our veterans, we serve them,” stated Randy.
Beyond local veteran outreach programs, Elks Lodge #449 supports the community through student scholarships, youth programs like the Hoop Shoot Free-Throw Competition, the Americanism Essay Contest and drug awareness education. All of this is possible through the Elks’ Community Investments Program and the dedication of local members.
A Small Grant, A Big Impact
While the $1,000 Freedom Grant may seem modest, the results are powerful. It equipped dozens of local veterans with vital supplies and reminded them they are not forgotten.
“These gifts send a message,” said Al. “You are seen. You are valued. Someone cares.”
The Elks hope this story will inspire others to contribute, volunteer and advocate for those who once served and now need a helping hand.
To support Habit Missions/Watchmen of the Streets or to learn how you can help local veterans, visit watchmenofthestreets.com. For more information about Elks Lodge #449, visit wselks449.com and the Elks National Foundation’s work with veterans, visit elks.org.
