Homes for Our Troops is a National, Non-Profit Organization whose motto is, “Building Homes, Rebuilding Lives”. Homes for our Troops builds custom homes for severely injured military service members and their families, but I learned that in the process of providing a new place to live, they also provide the support and love needed for these families to rebuild their lives.
JTP was able to support HFOT at a recent Community Kickoff in Jacksonville, Florida, which honored service member Jarrod Addison and his very special family. The Event included a parade, cheers by local cheerleaders, a beautiful performance of the National Anthem and flag ceremony, inspirational speakers, and lunch!
As a husband and the father of three, Addison’s new home will allow him to function comfortably and independently after having his ankle shot and severely wounded while serving in Afghanistan.
Among others, Executive Director Bill Ivey delivered an inspiring address explaining how Homes for Our Troops has built over 280 homes so far, and plans are in the works for over 80 more! HFOT builds not only a physical home for a family, but also helps them build a plan for keeping the home with 3 years of financial counseling after the family moves in. The employment and education rate for families supported by Homes for Our Troops skyrockets past those who do not have such a support system.
The outpouring of support from local military, first responders, and school district was beautiful to see! Jacksonville really showed the love to our local Military Hero! 
JTP was contacted by Robin Hommel of ABC News, New York, about volunteering our services for this special Community Kickoff, and when I learned why Robin was in town to help out, I was floored! Robin’s son, a Middle School Student, had been curious about what his Mom was working on. As he learned about Homes for Our Troops, he became so passionate about it that he led a fundraiser at his school to support them, all on his own!
Robin wanted to encourage his passion for serving others, so she volunteered to come and provide video footage of a Homes for Our Troops Event. She was also so kind to create this video clip for us to help us spread the word about Homes for Our Troops! To learn more about Homes for Our Troops and how you can get involved, visit their website here: https://www.hfotusa.org.
