Manasota Lodge provided its first Welcome Home veteran’s kit to a veteran transitioning from Manatee Veterans Village into her own apartment. The kits are a program of the Elks National Veterans Service Commission which reimburses lodges up to $300 (or up to $500 if it includes a bed). This veteran provided the lodge with her wish list which consisted of a shower liner and rings, large trash can with liners, laundry basket, desk, bookcase, accent rugs, end tables, and TV stand. Three years ago, the lodge started working with Manatee Veterans Village. Part of their program provides a transitional housing service for veterans who are experiencing homelessness. Jim Klocke, Lodge Veterans Chair, viewed the Welcome Home kit program as another excellent opportunity to assist the village residents. Pictured Feb. 18 at the kit delivery are the veteran in her new home (name unreleased by lodge) and Klocke.