Mike was a war journalist in the 82nd airborne division during the first golf war, where he developed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). After returning home, he lost his job, and in turn, lost his home because of his struggle with PTSD. He was homeless for three years trying to manage his PTSD. Mike was eligible for veteran benefits, but got lost in the overwhelming bureaucracy of the Veteran’s Assistance Department, which is all too common.

“Worrying about where I was going to sleep or how I’d find my next meal, plus the PTSD, was all-consuming. As much as I wanted to, I couldn’t find my way off the streets.”

Finally, Mike found Housing Initiatives and a permanent home. At Housing Initiatives, we assisted Mike in accessing the federal benefits and counseling support that he deserved. After living with Housing Initiatives for four years, Mike has turned his life around.

“The number one step in my healing was having a permanent roof over my head. Once I had a home, I focused on getting counseling and I’ve now found my way out of the dark tunnel. I’m able to pay my bills, I’ve begun to volunteer for therapy programs to help other vets, and I am working my way towards a job. Soon, I’ll likely leave Housing Initiatives because I’ll be emotionally and financially stable again.”

< Back to stories