Under unfortunate circumstances, anyone can end up experiencing homelessness. Joseph Trevino, a veteran in Phoenix, Ariz., was one of those people.
Joseph came to MANA (Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force) House last year with only the clothes on his back. MANA House supports veterans experiencing homelessness by providing transitional housing and case management, as well as assistance with finding permanent housing, accessing VA benefits and more.
Facing Multiple Barriers to Stability
At the time, Joseph was down on his luck. He had some unfounded legal charges that he hoped could be expunged from his record. He had also experienced a painful separation from his wife and daughters.
On top of that, he was visually impaired and dealing with health issues. Without a safe place to live and an income, he was unable to seek medical care that would improve his quality of life.
Making Progress with MANA House
With the help of MANA House, Joseph overcame every barrier in his way. He secured permanent housing and moved into an apartment. He successfully navigated the legal system to get his record expunged as well.
He connected with the VA to receive health benefits and was able to have eye surgery to restore his vision. Joseph did not realize he was eligible for assistance with a disability connected to his military service. Upon learning this, he successfully filed a claim to receive this assistance.
Additionally, Joseph was able to see his daughters again. He is working on becoming the man his daughters need him to be.
Keeping Faith Through Difficult Circumstances
He is a shining example of what it means to never give up on the future that God has planned for you. “I certainly want to give God the glory. Through all of my adversity, I kept my faith,” he says.
Like Joseph, many of the veterans at MANA House arrive with little to no belongings. You can help supply them with needed items like clothing, shoes and toiletries by donating through our Amazon Charity List.
