We can’t always help everyone, but St. Francis House staff does not let location limit who they can help. Whether it’s SSVF staff serving the entire state; or individual staff members making sure someone gets fed, our helping spirit goes beyond the walls of our building!
So, when Community Resource Coordinator, Tracy Akines, saw someone living in an abandoned storage unit, she got to work. Mrs. Tracy learned he was a Veteran who had recently lost his wife of forty-one years. “Losing his wife just broke him. He gave the entire estate to her best friend and hit the road. He had to get away for his mental health.”
He ended up in Redfield, Arkansas, where he was permitted to stay in an abandoned storage unit by the owner. Mrs. Tracy talked to St. Francis House Director, Greg Chastine, and soon he had clothing, bedding, food, and hygiene items. “And when he’s ready to contact Veteran services, we’ll be there to get him the help he needs,” Tracy said.