Veterans News

In Their Own Words

In 2015, the ENVSC pledged to partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs to help end veteran homelessness. Our Emergency Assistance Fund offers a lifeline for veterans in need. The fund pays for essential housing expenses such as security deposit, rent and utilities to help veterans exit or prevent homelessness.

We often receive notes of appreciation from veterans who benefit from our homelessness programs. Every veteran has a unique story, and we love having the chance to hear from veterans in their own words. Now, we’re excited to share some of those words with you!

After the Emergency Assistance Fund paid the security deposit for her new home, one Los Angeles-based veteran wrote, “I wish to express my overwhelming gratitude and thanks to you. I can't completely put into words how it feels to have a beautiful secure place to live and to know that there are people in the world who are concerned about the rest of us and are taking action to ensure our well-being.”

A veteran in Miami expressed similar sentiments. He wrote, “Thank you much! I appreciate everything you have done for me. The past eight years have not been easy for me. After losing several jobs as a result of my injuries from the military, I have been forced to survive with just over a thousand dollars a month. Some days seem impossible. But I know giving up is not an option as I have two sons, one who’s still in high school. Sometimes it’s not easy to reach out for help. No one likes to be turned down. So, on behalf of all the veterans and service men and women you have given so many reasons for hope and to look forward to the future, I am eternally grateful.”

Recently, we assisted a veteran in San Diego. He was behind on rent and fearful that a budgeting mistake would lead to homelessness. He explained, “I'm thankful that my life is content, but I recently made some errors in judgment, and you rescued me within a matter of days. Without your assistance I would have groveled and skimped for a couple of months to get back on track. I'll show my gratitude by not repeating myself. I can't give enough thanks for helping me. I and thousands of others are grateful that people like you exist in a world that is messy and focused on money.”

On the left, a handwritten thank-you letter from a newly-housed veteran who received a Welcome Home Kit from Hopkins, Minn., Lodge No. 2221. On the right, Hopkins volunteers get ready to distribute Welcome Home Kits to veterans in need.

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