In the spring of 2019, Jesús proudly walked across the stage at his high school graduation in Bullhead City, Ariz. This place had become home after years of moving from town to town with his father, following the tragic loss of his mother when he was just a child.
Finding Purpose Through Military Service
Like many young adults, Jesús was searching for stability and purpose. He had long dreamed of serving his country, and in 2021, he enlisted in the U.S. Army.
He pushed through the challenges of basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, advancing to his infantry training as an 11B, a role that forms the backbone of the U.S. Army’s ground forces. Eventually stationed at Fort Drum, New York, Jesús finally felt that he had found his place in the world.
Sadly, after just a year of service, Jesús was honorably discharged due to medical reasons. The return home was humbling and heavy.
Facing Housing Instability as New Parents
Back in Bullhead City, Jesús reconnected with his high school friend, Madison. Their friendship quickly blossomed into a deep partnership, and soon they were married, hopeful for the future and expecting their first child.
But like so many young families, they faced hardship. Steady work was hard to come by, and the cost of living outpaced their income. When their daughter Lucy was born in 2024, the joy of becoming parents was met with the harsh reality of housing instability.
The little family found themselves without a place to call home. Still, Jesús never gave up. He continued searching for work and support.
A Family Finds the Support System They Need
One day, a conversation with his landlord opened the door to a life-changing opportunity. Jesús was referred to Catholic Charities and Nation’s Finest, local organizations dedicated to supporting veterans.
That’s when Jesús met Jennie Montano, a case manager with the Veterans Services program. Veterans Services helps veterans and veteran families who are facing a housing crisis achieve stable housing and provides case management and resources.
Jennie’s warmth and compassion made it easier for Jesús and Madison to accept the help they truly needed. She, alongside Housing Case Manager Melissa Mueller, helped place the family at the Legacy Foundation Christine Stamper Center for Help & Hope—a safe and welcoming 57-bed shelter in the heart of Bullhead City.
Discovering a Caring Community of Staff and Residents
Jesús, Madison and Lucy were placed in one of the family units, where they found not just shelter, but dignity, security and a fresh start. Lucy even celebrated her first birthday there, quickly becoming a favorite among staff and residents alike. When Jennie transitioned to a different program, she made sure the family was in good hands with their new case manager, Jasmin Rodriguez.
Throughout their time at the shelter, Jesús never stopped working toward a better future. His determination paid off when he landed a job at a local, family-owned Mexican restaurant. Before long, he was able to purchase a car.
Building a Future with the Proper Support
With stable income, growing confidence and continued support from Catholic Charities, the family reached a major milestone. In September 2025, Jesús, Madison and Lucy moved into a home of their own.
Today, they remain connected to case management services with Jasmin and are enrolled in the Shallow Subsidy program, which will provide housing assistance for up to two years. This critical support system will help them continue building a stable, independent life.
The Impact of Walking Alongside the Most Vulnerable
Their story is one that shows strength, perseverance and the power of community. Those at the Legacy Foundation Christine Stamper Center for Help & Hope are honored to have walked beside them through this chapter of their journey.
Their success is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets courage, and why Catholic Charities staff do the work they do, every single day.
