“I don’t know what my circumstances would be without MACV.” -Housed Navy Veteran Ed

When Ed moved into Veteran Village during January of this year, it marked another steady step forward in a journey that began more than three years earlier.

In September 2023, Ed moved into MACV’s LaSalle apartment building after living in a MACV transitional house. Just a few months later, his story was shared in a December 2023 WCCO feature at a moment when having a safe place to sleep felt like a turning point.

Before experiencing homelessness, Ed had built a career centered on supporting others. He earned an undergraduate degree in applied psychology with a chemical dependency certification, followed by a master’s degree in counseling psychology. He worked in clinics alongside Veterans navigating substance use and mental health challenges.

Then several losses collided at once.

Ed experienced a rapid decline in his mental health. He left his clinic job. His marriage ended. Without a steady income or support, he began moving between his car, friends’ couches, and dining room floors.

VA clinicians helped identify what was happening. Ed was diagnosed with probable bipolar disorder, and through coordinated services, within days, he was able to stabilize and focus on rebuilding his life.

From there, the VA referred Ed to MACV. MACV responded quickly, connecting him to transitional housing and then permanent housing at LaSalle. That continuity mattered. It meant Ed did not return to living in his car or cycling through unstable situations.

For several years, LaSalle provided the steady foundation Ed needed. During that time, he focused on strengthening his health and rebuilding important relationships. His grandson moved in and has been a consistent source of support. As his routine stabilized and he looked ahead, Ed began considering what type of housing would best fit this next chapter of his life.

That path led him to Veteran Village.

Walking into his new home, the difference was immediate.

“My first reaction was amazement,” Ed said. “Everything is brand new.”

Veteran Village offers affordable housing that better aligns with Ed’s day-to-day life, including regular VA appointments. He’s beginning to connect with neighbors and is already looking ahead to spring, gardening, spending time outside, and settling into a new community.

“MACV is very supportive,” Ed said.

From crisis to care, from LaSalle to Veteran Village, Ed’s story reflects how housing, health care, and consistent support, working together, created real stability over time.

“I have so much to be grateful for,” he said.

Now, Ed is focused on living life to the fullest.