COVID-19 has proven difficult for everyone – including Carie.

Before HVAF

Carie served in the United States Navy from 1988 to 1992. She said she is proud to be one of the few women to work in a submarine at that time.

After getting out of the Navy, Carie worked immediately in Michigan. Over the years, life became harder for her. She said she became very sick, experienced abuse from others, and struggled with substance abuse. Finally, she knew she needed to move away from her hometown.

“I knew if I stayed in Michigan, I wasn’t going to live again,” Carie said.

Carie moved to Marion, Indiana and later on received help from the VA Domiciliary. And then later, she went to Volunteers of America and they referred her to HVAF – Helping Veterans And Families.

Carie & COVID-19

Even in the midst of COVID-19, Carie moved into Veterans Villa – one of HVAF’s permanent apartments. She said she is happy to be living at one of HVAF’s properties and her case managers taking care of her when needed.

“A lot of bad things have happened to me,” Carie said. “And they took care of me.”

While living here, Carie said she has tested positive for COVID-19 twice. As she quarantined in a hotel, HVAF’s case managers worked to sterilize her apartment. She said she doesn’t believe any other apartment complex would do this.

She said she is especially thankful for Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Case Manager April Vail. Carie even said she doesn’t understand why she cares about her and the other veterans so much.

“She makes me feel safe. Her kindness is amazing,” Carie said. “She’s something else.”

April said she is very proud of Carie’s growth this year while working with her.

“Life can present some chilling setbacks for our veterans … but Carie has been steadfast in weathering the storms,” April said. “She is stronger and, I believe, more hopeful – and ready to embrace the next chapter of her life. It means a lot to me that this program is here to support veterans as they wage war on adversity – and WIN.”

HVAF & COVID-19

HVAF’s case managers have really had to step up to the plate during these challenging times, and HVAF’s President & CEO Brian Copes is so appreciative of their hard work.

“Our front line case managers have served our homeless and at-risk veterans with distinction throughout the pandemic and demonstrated tenacity, grit, and extraordinary resiliency and adaptability in accommodating the many changes forced on them by COVID-19,” Brian said. “The professionalism and courage shown by our case managers in serving homeless and at-risk veterans throughout the pandemic is humbling to witness.“

You can help us ensure we can continue serving veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today!

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