The sturdy boots of a United States soldier are heavy for many reasons.  The weight it carries not only includes the brave men and women who don them but also the hope and freedom of a great nation.  Our military veterans risk their lives to protect their homes, families and communities and many times, a difficult road traveled overseas is followed by a difficult path upon their return home.

*Jonathan was in Iraq when a fellow soldier started firing on his own people.  He came home to Cleveland, Georgia to find himself the proud new Father of a baby boy and suffering from physical and psychological injuries.  He tried as hard as he could to find employment – working for a fast food restaurant, as a gas station attendant and mowing lawns. Unfortunately, he was unable to find steady work that could accommodate his physical and psychological needs.  His old and tattered suits did not impress potential employers and the stress experienced from poverty was clearly present at every job interview.

Jonathan approached volunteers with Americans Helping Americans® for assistance, determined to provide for his new family. With your support, Americans Helping Americans® gave Jonathan and his wife essential baby items such as diapers, baby clothes, crib bumper pads and blankets.  Jonathan also received men’s clothing and something suitable to wear for job interviews.  Now Jonathan can continue his search for a stable career with pride and dignity, knowing that he doesn’t have to worry about having enough money to pay for the small necessities in life that many of us take for granted.

Our military families and soldiers need a hand up from the community, help to regain their footing when even the sturdy boots they wear are not strong enough to keep them standing.  Americans Helping Americans® is honored to say “Thank You” to these brave men and women.  With your support, we can help more soldiers like Jonathan through distributions of goods and other program services.