Local veteran back on his feet with support from OLHSA Posted: May 27, 2016 Updated: May 30, 2016

As Memorial Day approaches, the nation is reminded of the sacrifices our military veterans have made. For veterans that have returned home and are struggling to find stability, OLHSA provides resources to guide them and their immediate families towards self-sufficiency through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. Available assistance includes case management, rent payments for existing leases, security deposits for future leases, moving expenses, utility assistance, child care and minor car repair.

Scott Strzempek, a former Marine and recent SSVF program participant, shared his story through a Q&A with OLHSA in hopes of providing insight about the impact it has had on him and motivating individuals in similar situations to reach out for the assistance they need.

OLHSA: What state was your life in before the SSVF program?
Scott:  I had lost my job so any money I did have was going towards costs associated with some past legal indiscretions I had. I was left without a penny available to pay for anything else, including my rent, and I was afraid I was going to end up homeless.  

OLHSA: What was your experience with the SSVF program?
Scott: I originally contacted Michigan Ability Partners and they referred me to OLHSA. From there Laura Wesley, the community services coordinator for SSVF, did everything in her power to help me. OLHSA covered my rent for a few months, and because of that I not only gained peace of mind knowing that I had a roof over my head, I was able to focus on finding employment. 

OLHSA: Where do see your life going after the SSVF program?
Scott: I see good things for my future. I am back to being stable with a place to call home, a job nearby and most excitingly a wedding to look forward to next spring.

If you or someone you know is a veteran facing homelessness, contact OLHSA at 517-546-8500 or email veterans@olhsa.org. The program serves individuals in Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Genesee, Washtenaw, Shiawassee and Ingham Counties.