Veterans have sacrificed their time and lives for their country’s beliefs, interests, and freedom. Being a veteran is more than just a title; it’s discipline, sacrifice, commitment and community. However, our appreciation isn’t often as apparent as we would like it to be.
Today many of the veterans in our country struggle financially and mentally because of the lack of support from our government. Due to this, our veterans often have to face the harsh reality of struggling with homelessness and food insecurity.
The following individuals that were interviewed, prefer to go by their first name.
Dan Beighley, is the American Red Cross Director of Service for the Armed Forces/International Services program, along with being a 26 year old retired Marine Corps Sergeant Major. He speaks on the issues that veterans face after serving in the military.
“Many veterans face challenges such as homelessness, unemployment, mental health issues, and difficulty accessing healthcare. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be overwhelming, and without strong support systems, these struggles can become even harder to manage,” Dan said.
At Middle College High School our District Safety Officer (DSO) Joe Frausto once served in the Army for nine years. He shares what struggles he noticed veterans facing.
“The main struggles I’ve noticed that veterans deal with are homelessness, financial debt, unemployment and PTSD, for some of those who have experienced,” Joe said
These struggles are hard to control especially when being freshly out of the military, due to disconnecting from society, which can be difficult to adapt.
The American Red Cross is a non-profit organization with the objective of disaster relief, collecting blood, teaching CPR, and supporting military families. About 30,000 veterans were experiencing homelessness between the years of 2024 to 2025. The American Red Cross showcased their support by hosting an event known as “Totes of Hope.”
“Totes of Hope” is a program that encourages people, especially the youth, to collect and assemble bags or tote bags with essential items. Items such as socks, disinfectant wipes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap and more. These items are donated to hospitals that serve veterans, or donation centers for veterans in need, and other programs with the goal of helping them out.
“Its purpose is to encourage youth and community members to get involved in caring for veterans, especially those experiencing homelessness. It’s a way for us to give back and ensure they know they’re not forgotten,” Dan said.
The “Totes of Hope” program helps contribute the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces Team to aid military members, veterans, and their families, helping up to 15,000 individuals.
Joe showcases the support he received from the American Red Cross.
“I used to receive care packages from the American Red Cross. There were wonderful packages. I used to get letters from children saying, ‘Thank you for your service,’ ‘We’re happy that you do what you’re doing,’ ‘Keep it up.’ Those little letters were like great moments, because I would put them up on my locker next to my gear. That little kid took the time. All he knows is, ‘Hey, there’s this guy out there,’” Joe said.
Receiving a kit assembled by a young individual is heartwarming knowing that they took the time to assemble the bag and write a card, showcasing the care and effort people put into it.
“Practically, these kits provide basic necessities items that many veterans struggling or experiencing homelessness simply can’t afford. Receiving a tote filled with essentials shows that someone took the time to care, and that can be incredibly uplifting,” Dan said.
This program helps make a remarkable impact on the lives of veterans. Through this program individuals were able to show their gratitude and support by helping veterans and their families. Assembling a bag filled with essentials takes a few minutes, but the effect stays for a lifetime.
