Now that the fireworks of Independence Day have faded, I find myself reflecting

on the men and women who sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.

At People’s City Mission, we often meet veterans who never imagined they would

one day need help themselves. Life after military service can bring challenges

many people never see, like health struggles, addiction, trauma, job loss, or simply

a difficult season that becomes overwhelming.

One veteran’s story especially comes to mind. He came to People’s City Mission

through Military Drug Court. Like many veterans, rebuilding life was not easy.

But he refused to give up.

While staying at PCM, he began working in our kitchen. Day by day, he rebuilt

confidence, stability, and hope for the future. Today, he is preparing for an exciting

next chapter: a job in food service at a university cafeteria here in Lincoln.

His story reminds us that homelessness does not have to be the end of someone’s story.

This link here takes you to a short three-minute video where he shares, in his

own words, how support at PCM helped him begin again. I hope you will take a

moment to watch it.

Sadly, his story is not unique. On any given night, well over 100 veterans across

Nebraska may be experiencing homelessness. Here at PCM, we served 132 veterans in the last year. Across our state and here in Lincoln, veterans who once served

our nation still need a helping hand and a place to begin again.

Your gift today helps provide meals, shelter, recovery support, clothing, case management, and compassionate care for veterans and others facing homelessness.

This July, thank you for honoring veterans in a meaningful way, not only with

gratitude, but with action.

God’s rich blessings,

Pastor Tom