As we celebrate Memorial Day and remember those who gave their life defending our country, we can’t forget the many veterans who struggle with life.
“One time, I had an alcohol problem that... well, I know why I was homeless," Vietnam veteran David Blackshear said.
He volunteered for the Army out of Libby High School. After his service, he got a degree in social sciences from Maryland. He had a good career in business, until personal problems left him over his head and homeless.
Now, Blackshear lives at The Commons on Garden Lake, and has been there for about four years.
Seventy-five veterans live there. To qualify, they have to be homeless and have a disability; either physical or mental.
A few years ago, as many as 80,000 veterans were homeless in this country. But, thanks to the VA and the Veteran’s Services Commission, the number is now half that.
As far as rent, the veterans pay a third of what they can afford. Vouchers make up the difference
“For some, this will be where they live and die. (For) others, it’s the launching pad where they’ll be able to reclaim themselves; reclaim their lives, jobs, move on to their own autonomy,” Ken Leslie from Veterans Matter said.
Blackshear is hoping to transition out of the Commons at Garden Lake. He works as a job coach for the Office on Aging.
“When I think back on where I’ve been and where I came from, where would I be without veterans housing or affordable housing... I can’t imagine,” Blackshear said.