Article in The Citrus County Veterans Coalition Crusader newspaper.
Perhaps you have read about the Mission of Citrus County facility for homeless veterans. Since opening its doors in the past few months a number of articles have appears in the Chronicle regarding fire codes and restrictions specifically dealing with the residential structure, and of course many of these rules are necessary to provide a safe environment. The mere existence of the Mission is but one example of something right in Citrus County. As they continue to work on the details it is good to know that our veterans have the basic necessities required to remain involved in the community.
This article features a few of the veterans who right now call the Mission their home. The first interview is with Robert who continues to deal with injuries sustained while serving with the 101st Airborne in Viet Nam. He moved to Citrus County to be closer to his father who has recently passed away. Roberts friendly face will be one of the first to greet you when visiting the Mission. Asked what specific needs he would request from int
Inerested individuals: his response was immediate; funds for the general day to day operation of the facility and help doing the work required to pass the County inspections. A few requests from other residents included ride sharing opportunities, DVD and VHS movies, invitations to church and other social events and of course, home cooked meals are always welcome.
The next interview is with Joe. An Army veteran who served 14 months in Viet Nam. Following discharge he became a truck driver, a heavy equipment operator and for 17 years a volunteer fire fighter. Joe is actively seeking employment and looking for a reasonably priced living arrangement. Until recently he was employed doing yard and maintenance work. These skills along with being a great cook served him well as care giver for an elderly woman who recently passed away. Her death left Joe with glowing references from her family members but no place to call his own.
The final interview is with William, a Marine veterans of the Gulf War and desert Storm. His creative aptitude is evident while he shares his experiences as a photographer, a disc jockey, a theatre manager and until lately a customer service representative for Time Magazine. His interests also include practical ideas about creating a computer network to share information with fellow veterans regarding existing programs such as Vets Helping Vets, Swords into Plowshares and a variety of PBS radio broadcasts focused on veterans concerns.
The possibilities seem endless but for now the residents of the Mission aren't sure how long their doors will remain open. But they continue to stay busy working to meet the requirements for inspection deadlines. Unless they are able to comply with official demands the county threatens to close the facility. All the residents share that concern right now. Will the community work with them as they attempt to restore this vacant house and convert it to a much needed veterans shelter? A visit to the Mission and meeting the residents is time well spent. If you would like to call ahead their number is 419-6506 or 6506 and the location of the residence is 306 S. Park Avenue, Inverness.
There are certainly many ways in which we can all contribute. If you have something to offer the Mission please call Director & President Jim Sleighter at 794-3825.(article by Kate Hughes of Floral City)
http://www.baynews9.com/VideoPlayer/?Veterans_Shelter Bay News 9 video
