Post by Union Mission Ministries

Robert graduated from high school and enlisted in the #Marine Corps Reserve, serving from 1979 to 1984. When he left the military, he went to work for Norfolk Naval Shipyard, then moved to North Carolina to work at a turkey processing plant for five years. But in 2004 he was diagnosed with kidney disease and applied for disability. When his sister lost her sight, he returned to Virginia to help her and her two children until she died in 2007. Though Robert did side jobs for extra money and to “keep busy,” he couldn’t maintain the hours with his health issues. Over the years, whenever he needed a safe place to live, he'd come to stay at The Union Mission. “I even worked in the warehouse for a few years and passed out donation pick-up bags in Ghent," he said. While staying here as a shelter guest, Robert joined our men's discipleship program, where he received intensive spiritual mentoring and help with his specific needs. "They understand and work with each individual," he said. "We all have problems, but they work with us and talk us through them." "I thank God The Union Mission is here," Robert said. "I’ve seen it help so many people. It really helped me a whole lot. It’s truly been a blessing!" #Veterans #VeteransStories #Military #homelessveterans