James Perry is an Army Veteran who has lived in Allen County his entire life – but he hasn’t always had a place to call home.
At 67 years old, James found himself homeless and struggling with addiction. One day, he discovered The Rescue Mission where he enrolled in their yearlong recovery program. James was determined, and stayed committed to the program through graduation.
Once in recovery, he was ready to secure permanent housing. His caseworker at The Mission connected him with Brightpoint and Family Development Service Worker, Angie Helms. She quickly enrolled him in the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program.
Before James began working with Angie, he had no idea where to go or what to do to find housing. He had heard of Brightpoint before, but wasn’t aware that there was housing assistance available. Being enrolled in SSVF, James felt supported and well-guided. Within a few weeks of working with Angie, he was able to secure stable, affordable housing.
Once housed, the assistance from Brightpoint didn’t stop there. James had some furniture in storage but needed a bed. Angie helped him get a bed to complete his apartment furnishings, and delivered an assortment of basic supplies to help him get started. “Brightpoint has given me everything I need” he exclaimed when talking about the SSVF program.
James was so proud and excited to show off his new apartment. As we toured his space, it quickly became apparent that he had found a place to call home. “Brightpoint gave me the tools I needed to get housing; all I had to do was put in the work!”
James expressed that without Brightpoint he would likely be staying out on the street in his car right now. With tears welling up in his eyes, and a big smile on his face, James said “I appreciate Brightpoint, and I appreciate Angie for all the hard work she has done… I’ll be forever grateful and I will always remember Brightpoint.”