A Quick Response Prevented Homelessness for Beau and his Family

After returning from his last tour of duty with multiple brain injuries and PTSD, Beau Stecklein was struggling to make ends meet for his family. “It was amazing when I called Operation TBI Freedom and talked to John Lenz. We were about to lose our house to foreclosure,” said Beau, a 12-year Army Airborne Ranger veteran.

Operation TBI Freedom Care Coordinator John Lenz immediately contacted Soldiers’ Angels, an organization that was able to provide emergency financial assistance to the family. Thanks to the quick response and generous outpouring of support, Beau and his wife, Carrie, were able to keep their home. Carrie said their family was overwhelmed by the response.

These days the future is looking much brighter for the Stecklein family. Carrie volunteers with an organization that provides therapeutic retreat for military families, and Beau is thinking about turning one of his passions into a new business venture. "I love horses," Beau said. "I’d like to create a horse therapy service that would allow veterans to have a peaceful place to R&R that includes riding and just being in the beauty of nature."

Their care coordinator, John, makes the point that homelessness is a common risk faced not only by the Steckleins but by many wounded veterans. "Most homes were purchased or rented when the injured person was still working active duty and incomes were higher. Often veterans with traumatic brain injury are unable to work at their former jobs when they return stateside,” John explained. “Helping veterans keep their homes while applying for benefits is a key stabilizing factor in long-term family well-being.”

If you know of a wounded veteran who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, there are resources to help. Contact Operation TBI Freedom at 1-866-245-6600 or visit us online at www.OperationTBIFreedom.org.

Veterans can also get help through the VA's 24/7 confidential hotline, the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans. Call 1-877-4AID-Vet (424-3838) or visit them online at www.va.gov/homeless.