In a remarkable effort to support local veterans, Homeless Heroes, a dedicated organization committed to improving the lives of veterans in the Panhandle, has announced the launch of a new initiative aimed at providing stable housing to homeless veterans. The project, called Hatch Homes for Heroes, focuses on transforming the former Astro Motel located on the west side of town into safe, supportive housing for veterans in need.
The renovation work at the former motel is already underway. Volunteers and staff members are working tirelessly to replace damaged sheetrock, remove old fixtures, and prepare the rooms for the incoming residents. This transformation is crucial to providing a comfortable and welcoming environment for veterans who have faced challenges with homelessness.
Randy Willmon, a board member of Homeless Heroes, shared the organization's ambitious goals for the year. "The goal for this year is basically to raise $250,000. That way, we can get a large portion of the renovation done that will also lead to us actually starting to move in and begin really executing what our mission is," he said. Willmon’s dedication to the cause underscores the importance of this project to both the organization and the community.
Once renovations are completed, the 500-square-foot motel rooms will be converted into independent living spaces for veterans. Each unit will offer a comfortable, private setting while also providing essential support services on-site. The project ensures that help is available 24/7, allowing veterans to access the assistance they need, from mental health services to career counseling and more.
Chris Israel, the executive director of Homeless Heroes, emphasized the broader vision behind the project. "We want them to copy us, and we want to give the technology of what we're doing away to other communities so they could copy it and do for their local veterans what we're going to do for our local veterans," Israel said. This spirit of collaboration reflects the organization’s goal to inspire other communities to adopt similar initiatives to aid their own veteran populations.
The organization hopes to welcome the first group of residents to Hatch Homes for Heroes by spring, providing veterans with a place to call home. However, the project is far from complete, and the organization is actively working on fundraising efforts to ensure that the renovation stays on track.
To help meet the $250,000 fundraising target, Homeless Heroes will host a variety of events and campaigns throughout the year. These fundraising activities will not only support the renovation of the motel but also assist in the long-term operation and sustainability of the homes for veterans.
For those interested in supporting the project, Homeless Heroes has made it easy to get involved. The organization is hosting a range of events and campaigns aimed at raising funds and awareness.
Homeless Heroes’ Hatch Homes for Heroes is more than just a renovation project – it’s a bold step toward ensuring that no veteran in the Panhandle is left without a place to call home. With the support of the community, the project is poised to make a lasting impact and could serve as a model for other communities across the country.
