In 2014, Terri, 56, walked into HVAF in need of
housing. She carried very little; only her DD214 card proving she was a veteran
of the U.S. Air Force. The card is all she needed. HVAF provided her with a
furnished apartment, food, hygiene items and clothing. It was an adjustment, but
so was homelessness. Terri was finally getting the help she needed.
Once housed at HVAF, Terri no longer needed to
find shelter. She began attending group meetings on a range of mental health
issues, including depression, bipolar disorder and PTSD. She attended meetings
at the VA. Because of her mental health
issues she says it has been difficult to hold down a job.
At HVAF, Terri was referred to HUD VASH and she
soon started receiving disability payments and permanent supportive housing. She
also qualified for a federally funded program which allowed her to receive a new bed, bedding and assistance with her car
repairs. Thanks to the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program Terri received her first new bed.
“They set me up with a bed and at 56 it is the first new bed I've ever owned,” expressed Terri as she knelt down and cried “I really appreciate it.”
“They set me up with a bed and at 56 it is the first new bed I've ever owned,” expressed Terri as she knelt down and cried “I really appreciate it.”
All of these resources were offered to her
because she came to HVAF.
Today, Terri is living in her own apartment and receives
ongoing mental health treatment at the VA. She also has reunited with her 18-year old cat,
Isabella.
