Food and Shelter 11th annual show

POSTED JULY 1, 2023 This note received from April Doshier , director of Food and Shelter. The request we made was to ask what help Food and Shelter was able to provide specifically to Veterans....and she sent me two heartfelt stories. Thomas came to us after having been evicted from his little apartment not far from downtown Norman.  The landlord sold the units and the new property owner decided to make some renovations and afterwards raised the rent significantly.  Thomas could not afford his rent and found himself homeless.  He spent several nights sleeping in his barely working station wagon.  When he finally figured out he could not survive in his car, he found his way to Food and Shelter.  We took Thomas to "A Friend's House", our shelter in downtown Norman.  When he arrived, all bottom bunks were taken and the only option was for Thomas to climb to a top bunk.  Being a retired veteran, he didn't complain but it was clear he physically, at the age of 75, could not make that climb up. In a beautiful effort, four different men jumped off the bed and offered theirs for him.  It's so sweet how our shelter guests take care of each other; especially older people.  Thomas was grateful and kind and fast to make friends.  He told fun stories only a 75 year old would tell.  Our case workers at A Friend's House worked fast to connect Thomas to the VA so he could be assessed for benefits and housing.  In a short stay, Thomas was able to move into a senior living apartment complex.  

I had not seen Thomas in about two months until yesterday.  I happened to be working at our shelter and he came by to say hello.  He looked amazing.  His smile was so bright.  He was clean shaven and his hair was combed.  It was such a special reunion for all of us.  When I asked him how the apartment is, he replied, "it's a dream.  I have a bed that sleeps well and a pool outside."  I replied, "that explains your amazing tan."  

Without Food and Shelter and A Friend's House, I assure you Thomas would have suffered a long while.  Because we place such a strong effort into housing veterans, Thomas did not have to live homeless long.  

Food and Shelter booth.....................$900.00

Midway Grocery donation..............$1,400.00

Regisration from cars.....................$4,100.00

50/50 pot............................................$500.00

Vendor space rental...........................$700.00

                                                   

TOTAL................................................$7,600.00