When Catholic Charities staff met Marshall Vincent, a 68-year-old Marine veteran, he was living in his car in Cottonwood, Ariz. Financial struggles had put a strain on his marriage, resulting in Marshall experiencing homelessness.
Trading a Nomadic Lifestyle for Stability
For seven years, Marshall camped all throughout Mingus Mountain, Cornville, Rimrock and Cottonwood. No matter where he went, he made sure his loyal companion, an American Pitbull Terrier called “Holly,” was by his side.
Although this nomadic lifestyle gave Marshall immense freedom in some ways, he knew he was getting older and that living in his car wouldn’t be sustainable forever. He was ready to find help and build a stable life.
Veterans Services Changes Lives Through Case Management and Resources
In June 2025, Marshall was enrolled in Catholic Charities’ Veterans Services program. Veterans Services helps veterans and their families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness find stable housing and provides ongoing case management that includes financial planning, assistance applying for VA benefits and more.
The Veterans Services team jumped into action, assisting Marshall in paying for vehicle repairs and gas. Through hard work, determination and the support of the team, Marshall moved into permanent housing at Oak Wash Apartments, a local low-income housing community, in July 2025. Staff also helped provide household items to make the apartment feel like home.
Veterans Services staff were impressed by Marshall, who stayed active working on his housing plan and was incredibly cooperative throughout the whole process. They stated how rewarding it was to see him achieve stable housing after so many years of homelessness.
A Veteran Looks Forward to the Future
Today, Marshall is thriving in his new home, grateful, comfortable and excited about what the future holds. He is thankful to finally have stability and a safe space for him and his dog.
There are countless veterans in Northern Arizona who are experiencing the same struggles that Marshall went through. You can be the reason they find stability and permanent housing. Consider donating online or through our Amazon Charity List to support veterans in our program.
