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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Homelessness is an issue plaguing more than 35,000 veterans in the United States, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
"It's not only homelessness, it's hopelessness," said Joe Galloway.
Galloway is the kitchen manager for Veterans Coming Home, where he lives. He also served in the Air Force for six years.
"Being a veteran means that I have served this country and I have done it with honor," Galloway said. "Today I'm now serving the Lord, which is also an honor."
After suffering a personal tragedy, he found himself homeless in 2007. Now, he shows others it's possible to get back on your feet.
"All these people need to be shown that there is a better way, a better lifestyle, a better way of dealing with difficulties in society," Galloway said.
He wakes up at 5:30 every morning to start the coffee and serves breakfast and lunch to those who come to the daytime shelter on Jefferson Avenue in Springfield.
"My housing situation is somewhat out right now," said Kevin Holcomb, one of the homeless veterans that Galloway serves.
Holcomb was in the Navy for 22 years. He says there are a lot of homeless veterans in Springfield, and they all are in need.
"A lot of 'em are qualified for assistance from the Veterans Administration, and they won't even go try to get it," Holcomb said. "Not every veteran thinks they're owed."
Galloway says he believes there should not be any veterans who are homeless.
"You've got to show patriotism," Galloway said. "It's not just being honorable to our flag, it's also supporting those who have defended that flag."
There are multiple organizations across Springfield that are working to help the homeless, including veterans. They are all in need of hand sanitizer and warm clothes as we head into winter.
News Source : https://www.ozarksfirst.com/news/veterans-voices/former-homeless-veteran-helping-others-get-back-on-their-feet/
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