Wraparound partnership helps provide home for veteran

Thanks to the wraparound partnership of several agencies in Mississippi County, a couple went from homeless to housing in three weeks.

Veteran Hershel Lancaster and Bobbie George have been together for 30 years. They fell on difficult times when they lost their home and possessions in a fire. They both have health issues.

They have been homeless for three years living in motels or in their vehicles.

“It has been hard,” George said. “The mission has been a God send for us.”

When the couple first arrived at the mission, the facility was undergoing roof repairs and there were no rooms available.

Lisa Willard, Union Mission director, said she contacted Devida Brown with the EOC Housing and they were able to provide them a motel room for a week.

After a week, the couple came to the mission where they have been for two weeks. Willard put them in touch with Supportive Services for Veterans Families. Willard said the organization was able to help with the expense of moving into an apartment.

“They provided the first month's rent and all of the deposits, including the utility deposits,” she said. “They also provided a voucher for a bed and food.

“Willard then contacted Integral Enterprises in Osceola. The property manager, Charlotta Hill, came to the mission and helped them with their application for an apartment. They were approved and should be signing the lease any day and ready to move in this weekend.”

They may be in their new home in time for Veterans Day. Lancaster served three years in the Army and was wounded during his service in Vietnam.

“I will never forget this mission,” George said. “They are like family. Our car was broken down and they found a local mechanic and got it fixed for us. Thanks to these great people, we will have a home and transportation.”

Willard also helped Lancaster make contact with a local nurse practitioner, who is also a board member of the Mission, to receive needed home health services.

During his working years, Lancaster worked as a carpenter with his brother.

With tears in her eyes, George said what everyone has done for them is so much and they would always be thankful.

Willard said working together makes it possible to offer a hand-up for people in need.