“MACV is incredible—helpful, informative, and never judgmental.” — Housed Air Force Veteran Barrie

At 60, Air Force Veteran Barrie takes life one day at a time. For the first time in years, he feels he’s truly living—not just existing. “There’s a big difference,” he says.

Decades of loss, addiction, and regret weighed him down. He knows what it’s like to feel stuck in survival mode. But now, after being connected to MACV through the VA, Barrie commits himself to this new chapter at Ultima House in Rochester. With the support of MACV and his fellow Veterans, he builds a life grounded in stability, recovery, and community.

“Some people call this an apartment. I call this apartment home.” -Housed Air Force Veteran Barrie

Stability gave him the foundation to focus on his recovery, and he soon found a sense of belonging in the local Narcotics Anonymous (NA) group. Barrie does more than show up at NA meetings—he unofficially mentors others. Understanding the struggles of addiction firsthand, he’s now a source of guidance and encouragement for others on their journey.

Ultima House gives Barrie more than a roof over his head—it gives him a support system. He no longer feels isolated. Fellow Veterans check in on each other, offer encouragement, and share their victories, no matter how small. Every day isn’t easy, but Barrie chooses to keep moving forward.

For other Veterans facing housing instability, his message is simple: “Working with MACV is easy, straightforward, and life-changing.”