We the People: Helping Veterans at Eagle’s Landing

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - “Lee: This is very much like a second chance.”

Jim Trehern is once again enjoying life.

“It’s the second chance I didn’t even realize I needed. I didn’t realize there was this much support to help veterans -- when they needed this much help,” said Jim.

The Navy veteran found that much needed help at Eagle’s Landing.

“It’s short term living to help you get back on your feet and be a better person than you used to be,” said Jim.

Struggling with alcohol -- he’s been here since August. He was homeless and connected with Eagle’s Landing through Vets Recovery. He now has a place to live -- they offered counseling and connected him with resources to recover.

“If a lot of people I know knew I was here -- they just wouldn’t believe it -- because it happens. It can happen in a minute. People can need help. And I never saw myself in this situation -- but I thank god that there’s a place like this that can help me,” said Jim.

Eagle’s Landing is located at 6501 Moffett Road in West Mobile.

“This was basically just an open field with a little bit of concrete. A lot of partners developed this property to what it is today,” Rob Rogers, VOA Southeast President & CEO.

Since 2012 -- they’ve transformed the lives of more than thousand veterans.

“They have a great need because when they come in the doors here -- they have nothing -- literally,” said Rogers.

With 38 units -- the veterans not only have a place to stay -- but the VOA Southeast along with the VA gives them the tools they need to get back on their feet -- that includes food. While our 10 Caring Gifts Food Drive helps stock the pantry during the holiday season -- it’s an ongoing need as more veterans continue to rotate in.

“We work in partnership with the VA so they’re getting treatment at same time, they’re getting case management, counseling here... Stabilizing housing. We’re plugging them in with treatment providers and we’re launching them back into the community,” explained Rogers.

Jim is well on his way. He now has a job he loves and looks forward to family time. And even though he’ll eventually be leaving -- the eagle always comes back home.

“One part of this whole situation -- this community -- is service. I might miss them a few days -- I’ll be back and doing everything I can to keep this going and make it better and better,” said Jim.

Spoken like a true veteran -- always looking for another way to serve.

If you would like to donate non-perishable food items -- you can drop them off at Eagle’s Landing (6501 Moffett Road). Here are some other items that are useful to help the veterans as they transition:

Hygiene Products

Razors

Bath Soap

Shampoo

Toothpaste

Body Wash

Powder

Deodorant

Shower Curtain

Shower Rings

Shower Rod

Towels

Wash Cloths

Trash Can

Dish Drain

Pots & Pans

Cooking Utensils

Measuring Cups

Silverware Tray

Silverware

Tupperware

Hot Pads

Tablecloth

Can Opener

Plates

Bowls

Cups

Sheets

Comforter

Pillow

Laundry hamper

Trash Bags

Paper Towels

Dishwashing Soap

Toilet Paper

Laundry Detergent

Bathroom Cleaner

SOS Pads

Sponges

Pine Sol

Coffee Filters

Foil

Window Cleaner