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| Jim and Paul (From left to right) |
A
single day's work can be transformative for any veteran, especially one
fighting his way back from homelessness. Paul M., 52, knows this because he is
a veteran and was once in need of not only a well-paying job but a safe place
to live. He found both with the help of HVAF but he also gained a friend whom he
has mentored. This is the story of how two veterans never imagined homelessness
would bring them together and how they have found happiness again.
Paul’s
journey out of homelessness was not easy. For 2 1/2 months the veteran of the
Army reserves was homeless. Connections to family frayed. He was homeless,
living in a shelter. Time after time, he vowed to do better but couldn't break
the cycle. He entered HVAF housing in April 2014 with only $7 in his pocket.
First,
his housing needs were met after he met with Case Manager Sarah Reed who helped
him get back on his feet. Paul lived at the Keltner House and it was where he
first met fellow veteran Jim R. Then, his job search began in earnest.
Both
Paul and Jim received help with resume building as well as transportation to and
from job fairs. Employment Specialist Robin Close helped both veterans improve
their resumes and Paul was able to find a job at a landscaping company. The job
proved to be too physically demanding so he began looking for another job.
“I’m a
natural reactor,” says Paul and my HVAF case manager has helped me out a lot
with that. I think about things and weigh the pros and cons now before I react.
Sarah advised me that if I am going to quit I should have a plan first. I
accepted a job with Sunshine Painting before I left my old job.”
Jim,
52, also an Army veteran, came to HVAF in May 2014, and was first housed at
HVAF’s Manchester Apartments and then moved to the Keltner House. During this
time of transition, Jim’s wife passed away. He was heartbroken.
Paul
was there to help.
Both painters
by trade, Paul helped Jim find employment at Sunshine Construction.
They
both ride two buses each day for 1 ½ hours. They talk about music (both love
80’s rock) as well as reflect on good and bad times together.
“Paul’s
friendship has helped me tremendously. I don’t know where I would be now if it
wasn’t for him. He also has helped me overcome an anxiety to crowds. Before
meeting Paul I would suffer from panic attacks. I have been off medication for
3 months and I am feeling great.
“HVAF
as well as my friendship with Paul has helped me in many ways especially during
my toughest times,” says Jim. “The staff at HVAF has been a tremendous force to
my success.”
The Result
With
help from HVAF, Paul and Jim overcame homelessness and are successfully
employed. They also qualified for the Supportive Services for Veteran Families
(SSVF) program and received assistance as they transitioned into their own home
in Fountain Square. They also received a car which will cut down on travel time
to and from work.
“I am forever thankful for HVAF and having met everyone who has challenged us and ultimately changed our lives for the better,” echoes Paul and Jim.
