Milford Elks Host Family Safety Event for Local Families on Flag Day Weekend

MILFORD, CT — On Sunday, June 14, 2026, the Milford Elks Lodge #1589 hosted a Family Safety Event at the Lodge, located at 124 New Haven Avenue in Milford. Held from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the community event welcomed local families for an afternoon focused on safety, education, and family fun.

The event featured children's games, free giveaways, treats, and activities for families of all ages. In recognition of Flag Day, the Milford Elks distributed American flags and America 250 commemorative giveaways to attendees, ahead of the Lodge's annual Flag Day Ceremony later that afternoon at 4:00 p.m. on the Milford Green.

The Family Safety Event was made possible by a grant from the Connecticut Elks Child Safety Commission. With this funding, the Lodge secured and distributed essential safety equipment to local residents, including fire detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and bicycle helmets. In total, 50 free bicycle helmets and 50 free fire and carbon monoxide detectors were distributed to members of the Milford community.

The event was organized by Milford Elks Drug Awareness Chairperson Nicole Vartuli and featured Elroy the Elk, the official mascot of the Elks Drug Awareness Program, as well as the Drug Awareness Trailer. The Elks Drug Awareness Program is the largest volunteer drug awareness program in the United States, dedicated to educating children, parents, and communities about the dangers of drug and substance abuse. Through educational materials, community outreach, and family-focused events, the program works to promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles and provide valuable resources to help prevent substance abuse before it starts.

"The Family Safety Event provided a wonderful opportunity for families to come together while learning about important safety topics and taking home resources that can help protect their loved ones," said Vartuli. "Watching the smiles on the children's faces as they received their new bike helmets warmed our hearts—not only because they were excited about their new helmets, but because we knew they would be safer while riding in our community. We are grateful to the Connecticut Elks Child Safety Commission for helping make this event possible."

The Milford Elks Lodge #1589 remains committed to supporting the local community through charitable programs, youth initiatives, veteran services, safety education, and family-oriented events throughout the year.

For more information about the Milford Elks Lodge #1589, upcoming events, or membership opportunities, visit www.milfordelks.com.