After watching a news report of a severely injured Service Member who had returned from Iraq, John Gonsalves thought to himself “What now? What happens to this person now?” He searched for an organization that he assumed was already in place where he could donate his building expertise for a few weeks. When he found out none existed, he quit his contractor job and started Homes for Our Troops.
Founded in 2004, Homes for Our Troops is committed to helping those who have selflessly given to our country and have serious disabilities and injuries since September 11, 2001. They coordinate donations of labor, materials and money to build homes for these servicemen and servicewomen so they can live independently and with maximum freedom of movement.
Through donations of money, building materials, and labor, Homes for Our Troops works directly with the Servicemen and Servicewomen to provide a home to an injured veteran at no cost. Most of the projects undertaken are brand new homes.
MSG Daniel Robles explores his new home built by Homes for Our Troops
In some cases, the Veteran already owns a home, so Homes for Our Troops renovates the home with all of the necessary special adaptations to accommodate their injury or need, providing the maximum freedom of movement and the ability to live more independently.
Homes for Our Troops reaches thousands of Servicemen and Servicewomen across the United States to give back for the sacrifices they have made. To donate, or learn more about Freedom from Hunger and the lives affected by this great charity, click here.