Mike and Lacey Bryant are dreamers and achievers.
Nearly a year ago, they began their quest to help homeless veterans begin to put their lives back together. As winter was drawing near, Mike found a local citizen who was willing to purchase a property with the understanding that as soon as a community block grant he was applying for was approved, the money would be repaid. There was one string attached to the grant which neither Mike nor Lacey could “live with”. The grant would require the veteran to leave the shelter after forty five days.
The Bryant’s’ were not to give up. As winter was upon Hillsboro, Lacey’s House took in their first residents. There was no furnace and lots of renovations were underway. The veterans all said it was better than from where they had come from. Many people stepped up with donations of time, material and furnishings. Mike and Lacey both felt that only after forty five days, these veterans were just beginning to trust others, find work and adjust to a normal day. Some need counseling, others need medical care and all need to feel love, trust and faith in them. Mike, Lacey, and their house managers provide that.
The Washington County Veterans Service Counselors are working with the Lacey’s House staff to get the veterans the medical help and any benefits they may be due. Other community based organizations provide counseling and job opportunities. Forward to now, two houses now accommodate twenty four veterans ranging in age from 23 to 65. Lacey’s House still needs many things. Furnishings to include single beds, linens, night stands and small dressers as well as new windows and floor coverings are to name a few. However, the biggest challenge is to raise the money to pay off the looming mortgage note.
To this end, Laceys House will sponsor many fundraisers this year. With many exciting events in store for the community to participate.. All proceeds go to retiring the mortgage. As a Non Profit Community Organization, Lacey’s House has a donation account at any Wells Fargo Bank under /Donations Account/ Lacey’s House. With more than 10,000 veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan residing in Oregon and nearly 2,800 more Oregon National Guard troops due home in April and May, some are going to need a place to call home. Nationally, 23% of all homeless individuals are veterans.
We should all feel the pride that Lacey’s House brings. It is Oregon’s first full service veterans shelter.
Serving Veterans who served for our freedom!
Mike & Lacey Palmer | Phone: 503.757.5655