From Homeless Veteran to Hope: Richard’s Journey
- Brand Focus
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Richard L, a former homeless veteran, has big plans for his life, thanks to help from his VA Case Manager and a little love from Meals on Wheels.
"I did not think anyone cared about me, until Meals on Wheels," says Richard L.
A former homeless veteran, Richard got help from the VA, receiving funding and establishing an apartment. His VA Case Manager recommended he sign up for Meals on Wheels.
"I spent quite a bit of time, signing Richard up and getting to know him," says Dawn O'Connor, Meals on Wheels Coordinator. "Then, just a few days after he signed up and got a few meals, Richard went missing!" One of the most valuable services performed by Meals on Wheels is a wellness check each delivery day. Drivers make certain Meals on Wheels recipients are healthy and accounted for. If a recipient does not answer the door, delivery drivers call the coordinator, who follows up with family, neighbors and friends to make sure the client is okay.
"Many homeless veterans have other issues than just homelessness," says Dawn. "When Richard went missing, I just wanted to make sure he was okay. His VA Case Manager, who was concerned as well, went to check on him. I began to call the homeless feeding sites I knew he frequented, asking if they had seen Richard. I finally called the authorities for a wellness check."
Soon the message got to Richard, that Meals on Wheels was looking for him, and was worried about him.
A few days later, Richard called Dawn to let her know he was okay. "He knew we cared enough to look for him, and it was the beginning of a friendship."
Richard continues to get his life back on track, re-establishing his family relationships and rebuilding his life. He has the support and help of the VA and his friends at Meals on Wheels who are rooting and praying for him!
