Roger That Podcast Ep 5: CHIP & 2023 PIT Count Results
July 31, 2023
Message from the CEO: HVAF’s first carnival for our veteran families!
August 9, 2023Army veteran receives life changing services at HVAF – including a new car!
Serving in the Army
In 1983, John enlisted in the United States Army. He served for six years, stationed in Korea as a tank driver.
He enjoyed his time in the service, as he felt closer to his crew than his own family. That made his transition from military life to civilian life very difficult.
“We were taught to take care of each other. But that’s not like that out here, it’s like every man for themselves,” John said. “I was depressed a lot. It took years to get over it.”
HVAF “changed everything”
John first came to HVAF in 2013 and said the services have been life-changing. Over the years, he’s received help with transitional housing, rent and utility bill assistance, pantry items, and employment support.
“It just changed everything,” John said. “HVAF is still instrumental in my life.”
This past year, he became close with his Employment Specialist, Sherry, as she shared job leads and advice with him. This past month, John started working as a security guard at a Kroger store through Metro One Loss Prevention Services Group.
Starting a new job is not the only exciting thing to happen to John this past month. He also received a new car! This was thanks to our partnership with National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides program.
A new blessing
John is a resilient single father of a teenage son and they relied on the Indy bus system to get to work, the grocery store, medical appointments, and school activities. Receiving the car is a blessing that will open doors for John and his son and allow them to be self-sufficient.
“It felt pretty good. You hear people say, ‘thank you for your service,’ but it almost sounds like a slogan. A lot of us are kind of turned off by that,” John said. “But to have that happen, that’s really ‘thank you for your service.’ Not only are you giving me a car but you’re helping me have a better quality of life.”
Your support ensures that HVAF can continue to provide necessary resources to Hoosier Heroes like John and his son. Please consider making a financial, tax-deductible donation today!