HOUSTON — The community is stepping up to help a veteran struggling to pay rent. Since KHOU 11 first aired his story last year, he's received more than $10,000 in housing assistance.
Walter Dashiell, 95, is a World War II veteran living in Sugar Land. Recently, Baker Ripley stepped in to help, offering to donate $4,553.74 to keep him from being evicted.
“He is an amazing person. He’s served our country and it’s my chance to serve him," said case manager Gina Cacioppo. "He was near and dear to my heart because my dad also was a World War II vet."
Cacioppo is on the non-profit’s Veterans Services Team. It's a group of 16 people dedicated to fielding calls and assisting families.
“We are really helping the people that are homeless that are veterans and we are also keeping veterans from becoming homeless," she said.
The team at Baker Ripley tells KHOU 11 it is now working with the Department of Veteran Affairs to find a more permanent housing solution for Dashiell. That would be a huge burden lifted from his daughter, who is desperate to take care of her dad.
“My advice is don’t assume anything. Call wherever you can call. Talk to people because they may tell you to call someone you didn’t even think to call," said his daughter, Zelda Dashiell. "Share it. Don’t keep it all to yourself,"
Baker Ripley's Veteran Services Line is (832) 799-2714. You can also email vetsinfo@bakerripley.org They offer services to veterans in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties.
If you have a problem and need help, email GraceCanHelp@khou.com, call (713) 521-HELP or fill out the form below.