Lyle, a 41-year-old Army veteran, served four years in the Afghanistan and Iraq theaters of operation. When Catholic Charities Veterans Services staff first met him, he had been struggling to maintain stable housing for three years. Lyle was driven and motivated to build a better life—he just needed someone to believe in him and help guide the way.

Veterans Services Offers Support and Resources During Crisis

Veterans Services helps low-income men, women and families who are facing a housing crisis in obtaining stable housing. The program provides ongoing case management that includes financial planning, assistance applying for VA benefits, emergency assistance and more.

Before he came to Catholic Charities, Lyle had experienced homelessness twice and was cycling through temporary living situations, sometimes finding refuge in his car. Because he had an extensive criminal history, searching for housing was both difficult and discouraging.

Lyle began receiving help through Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), a VA-funded program that allows Catholic Charities to provide the support veterans need to maintain housing and stability.

A Renewed Motivation to Find Housing

With a compassionate team now on his side, Lyle went from feeling lost and overwhelmed to empowered and hopeful. He kept in consistent contact with his case manager, advocated for himself, and remained focused on searching for housing.

Lyle located a two-bedroom unit in Flagstaff, Ariz. that would fit his needs. He applied for the unit and was approved in two weeks with the help of a landlord incentive program offered by SSVF. This program benefits both veterans and property owners by reducing risk for landlords while expanding access to quality housing for clients.
His motivation to succeed came not just from within, but also from his six school-age children. Knowing that they would now have a safe and comfortable place to visit him meant the world.

Employment Adds an Extra Layer of Stability

Since securing housing, Lyle has continued building momentum in his life. He has also found full-time employment that will help him remain stable and independent in his new home.

You can be part of the reason why veterans like Lyle find stability and hope for a better future. Donate online or gift needed items through our Amazon Charity List today.


Written by:
Holly Yzquierdo is an experienced Marketing and Communications Manager and has served at Catholic Charities since 2014. She is passionate about helping nonprofits share the impact of their work in a digital world. Holly has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Cameron University. Outside of work, Holly enjoys spending time with her family.

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