East Texas organization gives veterans experiencing homelessness essential supplies

LUFKIN, Texas (KTRE) - In life, everyone could use a helping hand at some point, and that goes for those who serve our country, too. The Military Veteran Peer Network does just that in many ways, one being with their Veteran Closet for veterans experiencing homelessness.

"I need a job, but I don't have anywhere live. Our first step is, is that we need overcome this barrier of you being homeless, do you have shoes, do you have toothpaste, a washcloth, soap," Michele Conner, the peer service coordinator for the Military Veterans Peer Network, said.

Conner said she has helped 64 veterans this year. That's across the 12 counties they serve: Angelina, Nacogdoches, Shelby, Sabine, San Augustine, Newton, Polk, Houston, Trinity, San Jacinto, and Tyler.

The issue is not just in East Texas. According to The Department of Veterans Affairs in January almost 32,882 veterans made up some of the homeless population in the U.S. With increased public funding, the number has decreased over the years and still is.

There's a different timeline for every vet who becomes homeless. The issue can arise months or years after, and even start before military discharge.

"If you don't have a plan, where I'm going, have money saved up, a job, it does affect you," Yvonne Munn, the women's center chair for Camp V.

There are other factors veterans can face including mental health issues, lack of support after discharge, and a hard time finding or maintaining a civilian job.

"You're told to get up in the morning, where to be, what to do, and one morning you wake up and you are no longer told what to do and you feel lost," Conner said.

Conner gives out items like hygiene products, clothing, blankets, and even welcome home baskets with household essentials.

"If I could save them $20, it could go to their food, or their water bill, or their trash bill," Conner said.

She helps veterans who are moving into their new place and even those who just need the essentials but are ready to settle in a home just yet.

The Military Veterans Peer Network connects veterans to resources and helps with the benefit application process. The Veterans Center is there for veterans to visit and connect with one another.

They are always accepting donations. If you are interested in helping, donations can be dropped off at their office at 3003 N. Medford Dr. in Lufkin.