Restoring Hope for Homeless Veterans
God’s timing is unparalleled. While many understand the phrase “Home is where the heart is,” for two Navy veterans battling homelessness, the meaning runs much deeper. It symbolizes stability and hope, made possible by God’s grace and community support.
Anthony stands outside his new home, smiling and holding his keys up in the air.
Anthony, a 33-year-old Navy veteran, felt the sharp pain of homelessness intensify after the birth of his daughter. As he stared into his newborn’s dewy eyes, a wave of new responsibilities washed over him. Before her arrival, he and his fiancée struggled to maintain housing amid rising costs and stringent requirements. They leaned on friends and family for temporary shelter but yearned for a permanent solution.
“Just keep faith, keep praying, and you know, things will work out. Everything happens for a reason. There were a couple of other places we looked at and possibly could have gotten. There’s a reason we didn’t,” Anthony reflected. “There’s a reason God had us waiting for this specific place. And I feel like this is something perfect for us.”
Grover, an eight-year Navy veteran, also endured life’s challenges, exacerbated by homelessness. During his service at sea, he faithfully assisted countless captains as a Yeoman. After his service, he took pride in his self-sufficiency until a debilitating injury changed everything. Tasks as simple as standing became impossible and frightening.
Grover stands outside his new home, smiling and holding his keys.
“I thought I didn’t need help. I didn’t want help. When I was in rehab, I remember trying to do it on my own, but after falling to the floor several times, I realized I needed the help of others,” Grover shared.
Grover’s injury left him disabled and confined to a wheelchair for months. The combination of his new condition and housing costs led to his homelessness. Although he found temporary relief in a local shelter, he wanted to be back on his own.
The Salvation Army of Greater Winston-Salem and the United Way of Forsyth County collaborate to provide critical support to veterans, including housing. Their steadfast efforts resulted in newly renovated homes for both Anthony and Grover.
These efforts also sparked a partnership with Backgammon Investments, an investment company led by the father-and-son duo Bob and Maxwell Anthes. They are committed to developing Winston-Salem, revitalizing neighborhoods, and fostering a sense of belonging.
The newly built deck sits on the side of the renovated duplex.
Maxwell Anthes, co-owner of Backgammon Investments, points at Anthony, who stands outside his new home.
“I started coming here about two years ago, and I liked the area. I like the progressiveness of the city,” Bob said. “I just like what’s going on downtown—with new construction, the restaurants, and all—I want to be part of it.” The company is working to establish more affordable housing for locals so that everyone has a warm, safe place to call home.
The collaboration between The Salvation Army, United Way, and Backgammon Investments showcases the power of community support. Together, these organizations have transformed the lives of two veterans, providing new beginnings.