News Summary
Orlando’s ‘No Buddy Left Behind’ program is making significant progress in combatting veteran homelessness, having successfully housed 24 veterans since its inception. Funded by a $150,000 grant from the Cigna Foundation, the initiative provides tailored support for homeless veterans. Stories of resilience, such as that of Jarold Walters, showcase the program’s impact as it connects veterans to permanent housing and essential resources.
Orlando’s “No Buddy Left Behind” Program Aids Homeless Veterans
Orlando’s “No Buddy Left Behind” program has made significant strides in addressing homelessness among veterans, successfully housing 24 individuals since its launch. The initiative, backed by a $150,000 grant from the Cigna Foundation, aims to support veterans experiencing homelessness in the region.
The program has notably assisted eight veterans in moving into permanent housing, while others remain in temporary accommodations as case managers tirelessly pursue long-term solutions. Jarold Walters, a Navy veteran who faced homelessness for a year, epitomizes the program’s mission. Walters, who lived in an unairconditioned car and later on the streets, was initially skeptical when approached by program volunteer Michael Bailey. Just four weeks after their initial exchange, Walters was handed the keys to his new apartment, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Support Strategies and Community Impact
Bailey, a veteran himself who knows the struggles of homelessness all too well, has dedicated his efforts to the program since its inception in February. His personal experience includes years of battling post-traumatic stress and addiction after his Army discharge in 1984. After serving 30 months in prison for drug-related charges, Bailey has maintained sobriety since 2007 and now focuses on helping fellow veterans reclaim their lives. He approaches veterans based on their military occupational specialties (MOS), providing tailored support to meet their unique needs.
The outreach component of the program is crucial, as many veterans hesitate to seek assistance due to a self-reliance mindset ingrained during their military service. Although the Veterans Administration and various agencies offer services for homeless veterans, the stigma associated with seeking help often prevents those in need from accessing resources. Pathlight HOME, as a key player in this initiative, also oversees two affordable housing complexes in Orlando. These facilities charge $725 per month, providing access not only to housing but also to job centers, food pantries, and donation closets.
Challenges in the Region
Florida ranks second highest in the nation for homeless veterans, trailing only California. Central Florida alone has over 200 homeless veterans, making up approximately 10% of the area’s total homeless population. Many participants in the program are currently in transitional housing while case managers work diligently to connect them with eligibility benefits and affordable housing solutions.
For those eligible, the case managers at Pathlight aid in securing critical disability benefits, guiding them through the often convoluted application process. Veterans who might not qualify for disability payments receive assistance through partnerships with the Homeless Services Network, which helps identify alternative housing and support services.
Individual Stories of Resilience
Despite the challenges that remain, success stories like that of Jarold Walters highlight the significant impact of the “No Buddy Left Behind” program. Walters, who now receives Social Security disability payments for cirrhosis of the liver, lives with his girlfriend, Marta Kimera, in one of Pathlight’s housing units. However, financial struggles persist, prompting further assistance in securing additional VA benefits. Kimera emphasizes their relief and happiness at finally having a stable home, marking a stark contrast to their previous stint on the streets.
Bailey’s efforts culminate in a fulfilling experience, where he personally hands over keys to fellow veterans alongside a certificate that reads “Welcome Home, Veteran.” The program’s effectiveness is deeply rooted in its staff’s shared experiences, fostering a unique understanding and bond with the veterans they assist.
The ongoing support through the “No Buddy Left Behind” program is vital in creating pathways out of homelessness for many veterans, highlighting the importance of community outreach and tailored assistance to address the specific needs of those who have served.
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Additional Resources
- Orlando Sentinel: No Buddy Left Behind Program
- Click Orlando: A Place to Call Home
- WESH: Resources for Central Florida Veterans
- MSN: Veterans Village Non-Profit
- Click Orlando: VA Disaster Assistance Resources
- Wikipedia: Homeless Veterans
