By Don Steen
Staff Writer n [email protected]
GENTRYVILLE – Hero’s Home Inc. is accepting applications for its first candidate for veteran housing. The 501(c)3 non-profit organization has essentially completed its first project house, a freshly refurbished and refurnished manufactured home on Boone Street. The one-bedroom home has been set aside for a single veteran, or married veteran without children, who currently lives without a stable housing situation.
Hero’s Home Inc. was founded by Gentryville resident LaVon Case, who also operates the Little Yellow House food pantry. She purchased the aged structure in April and fully financed the bulk of the work to renovate it and make it handicapped accessible.
Case’s initiative has since grown into a burgeoning community effort, with Hero’s Home Inc. looking to formally organize its leadership next month. The organization now has its eyes on building or refurbishing more homes in the Dale area, where Case has also donated property.
Other community businesses and individuals have been pitching in as well. Donations have helped insure the Gentryville home has all the comforts of modern living, from a washer and dryer in the bathroom, to a fully furnished kitchen and bedroom and even a television. Best Chairs also donated a couch to make the living room more hospitable.
Veterans Service Officer Butch Meredith, who will be retiring from his county position in the coming weeks, plans to remain involved in Hero’s Home Inc. and help it grow. He was present Friday morning to install a plaque outside the home, in recognition of the Spencer County Commissioners’ support in providing funds for a flag pole. Meredith was also working to put the finishing touches on some home repairs.
Applications are available for veterans interested in applying to live at the first Hero’s Home, or any future house under Hero’s Home Inc. The application asks for one’s name, military information, marital status, employment history, access to a vehicle, etc. Hero’s Home Inc. is also looking for supporters willing to donate time, services or resources to the effort.
For more information, call 812-660-0693.
Featured Image: Hero’s Home Inc. before and after photo
A newly refurbished home for a hero.
3 non-profit organization has...){kind=link}