Financial Assistance Full

I was homeless, caught up in drugs, and had completely lost my faith. My 18th birthday was spent in Iraq, dodging bullets and grenades as an infantryman. When I came home, everything fell apart. I lost my grandmother in a tragedy that shattered me, and for years I drowned in alcohol and pain, trying to figure out why I was even here.

After four DUIs and a night that ended with me being tased and broken, God stepped back into my life. What started as a spiritual awakening turned into complete deliverance. I gave my life back to Christ and everything began to change.

A few months later, I found the Guardian Renewal Project. Talking with their team helped me find peace again—real peace. For the first time in years, I knew I deserved better, that God still had a purpose for me.

I’ve now been sober for over a year, and I thank God every single day. Guardian helped me get back on my feet and reminded me that we’re not forgotten. Today, I share my story and help other veterans step out of those same dark places. There is hope—and there is better for us.

I served with the 814th Engineer Battalion, 1st CSB. Right out of basic, I was deployed to Iraq—not for my MOS as a bridge crew member, but as the lead gunner on the Mk19, running CST and escorting officers between bases. One day, I spotted contact in my lane, fired a pin flare, and engaged. The rounds tore into a vehicle, which turned out to be a VBIED. It detonated close to us, and I felt the shockwave pass through my body.

We returned to Al Asad Airbase, but by the next day I had to be medevaced to Germany—I was bleeding from my eyes, ears, and nose in my sleep. After some time, I was transferred to BAMC, told I could no longer serve, and was sent home. I struggled for years with alcohol, but I eventually got clean, got married, and now have four kids I’d give my soul for—if I still had one.

Recently, while working an under-the-table job, I got pinned between a tractor and a building and ended up with broken ribs. I was raised to believe a man should never ask for help—that he should provide for his family no matter what. But the people I’ve spoken with at Guardian are helping me feed my family until I’m back on my feet. They’re also helping me move from 70% to 100% disability and connecting me with real brothers—people who truly understand what I went through, not civilians with a PhD who can’t feel the rage I carry daily.

I am truly grateful, and I vow to remember this. I will return the favor for the help they’ve given my wife and kids.

Guardian Community has been a huge support system for me as I navigate through some difficult times. I’m very thankful for the care and encouragement they provide.

Guardian Community helped me when I had no one else to turn to. I’m deeply grateful for the support and will continue to give back in the future.

I went through really hard times, and this was one of the only organizations that truly gave me real help and relief.

I served for 26 years with the Army and National Guard and experienced many of the physical and psychological challenges so many of us face. After mixed results within the VA system, I sought alternative therapies. I decided to learn guitar as a form of therapy, and it evolved into something bigger and more meaningful than I could’ve imagined. Most importantly, I sought counseling through Guardian and came to realize how essential a faith-based approach is to my journey. For me, there is no true healing without Christ’s love.

Guardian Community Outreach has been absolutely gracious and welcoming to me. They gave me a job and helped me keep my lights on. Beyond that, having the energy to keep going means I can keep breathing at night. These people are wonderful, and I want to thank everyone—from the executives who personally reach out to my Director, Ryan McElroy. Guardian Community Outreach is truly a blessing.

I am a disabled veteran and had been searching for assistance for some time. I couldn’t afford rehab, and the VA was unable to cover my injury. I am so grateful to the Guardian Community for stepping in to support me and, by extension, my family.

Guardian is truly a great organization. I would recommend them to any veteran in need.

I was lost, but now I’m found, thanks to Jesus sending Mr. Kip and Mrs. Shannon my way. I am incredibly grateful for their kindness and support.

It always seems like one hardship after another with no end in sight. My family was struggling with costly car repairs and the damage from two hurricanes, Idalia and Helene. I exhausted all my funds and, being on a fixed income as a disabled Navy veteran, I’m unable to work due to my health.

I want to thank you all for helping provide my family with food until my funds come in. I am forever grateful!