Tunnel to Towers Supports Veterans This Thanksgiving
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has chosen to honor the spirit of Thanksgiving in a truly impactful way by delivering mortgage-free homes to injured veterans. This initiative aims to relieve financial burdens and restore a sense of independence to veterans who have made significant sacrifices for their country. This year, the foundation has focused on three inspiring stories of U.S. Army veterans who have received this remarkable gift.
Transforming Lives of Heroes
Casey Callister's Journey
Among the beneficiaries is U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Casey Callister. After a tragic accident left him paralyzed from the waist down, Callister’s ability to navigate daily life was deeply impacted. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation not only paid off the mortgage on his Citronelle, Alabama home but also completed essential renovations to enhance accessibility. Now, Callister enjoys a fully accessible home, allowing him greater independence.
SFC Callister expressed immense gratitude, stating, "I'm so grateful…I have a fully accessible home, I can take a shower, get my own clothes, and move around freely. Tunnel to Towers has done so much for me, but more importantly, lifted a heavy burden from my wife." These renovations have included an ADA-accessible master bathroom and smart home technology, enabling him to control various aspects of his home through an app.
The Story of Cory Collins
In China Grove, North Carolina, U.S. Army Sergeant Cory Collins has also benefited from the program. After suffering severe injuries from an IED explosion while serving in Iraq, Collins faced numerous challenges for himself and his family. The decision to provide them with a mortgage-free home has given them peace of mind and financial security. He remarked on the transformative impact of this assistance, saying, "My family is now financially secure…our money becomes our money again. I know that no matter what happens to me in the future, my family will be taken care of. Tunnel to Towers made that possible."
Additions to his home include upgrades such as a whole-house generator, accessible cabinets, smart technology, and a paved driveway, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to creating living spaces that cater to the specific needs of disabled veterans.
Caring for Cody Chism
U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Cody Chism, another recipient, was welcomed home to an upgraded, mortgage-free residence in Emmitsburg, Maryland. After enduring multiple traumatic brain injuries during his service as a combat medic in Iraq, returning to a supportive environment was crucial for his recovery. His wife, Vanessa, finds the updates to their home incredibly beneficial for day-to-day care. "There really isn't a word big enough to describe the gratitude I feel… It's not just for what Tunnel to Towers has done for my family, but for everything they continue to do for the entire first responder and military community. We are forever grateful," she said.
The renovations at their home have included features like ADA-accessible spaces, custom walkways, and smart home technology to assist with various household tasks seamlessly.
About the Tunnel to Towers Foundation
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation operates on the mission to “do good” for those who have sacrificed so much for the country. Established following the events of September 11, the organization works tirelessly to provide mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families and constructs specially adapted homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. Their goal also extends to eradicating veteran homelessness and ensuring that the legacy of 9/11 is never forgotten.
The foundation encourages individuals to become part of this noble cause by supporting the mission through donations — with as little as $11 per month, anyone can help change lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation?
The foundation aims to provide mortgage-free homes to veterans, Gold Star families, and first responders while promoting independence and stability.
How are the homes adapted for veterans?
Homes are renovated with accessibility features, including ADA-compliant bathrooms, smart home technology, and other modifications tailored to meet the needs of injured veterans.
How can individuals support the Tunnel to Towers Foundation?
People can support the foundation by making monthly donations, participating in events, and spreading awareness about their mission.
Who are some beneficiaries of this program?
Notable beneficiaries include SFC Casey Callister, SGT Cory Collins, and SSG Cody Chism, all of whom have received mortgage-free homes and essential renovations.
What impact does this initiative have on veterans?
The initiative alleviates financial burdens, enhances independence, and allows veterans to focus on their health and family without the stress of mortgage payments.
