Shattering Preconceptions: Sr. Stephanie’s Mission to Honor and Serve Homeless Veterans

Sister Stephanie has always considered Veterans Day one of the most significant holidays of the year. To her, it is a day dedicated to honoring and showing gratitude to military heroes for their bravery, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to the nation. She deeply respects their willingness to put their lives at risk to protect the freedoms of others.

Challenges Veterans Face and Their Backgrounds

Sister Stephanie’s first exposure to the challenges faced by veterans came during her time as a case manager at the Siena Francis House Homeless Shelter. There, she worked with homeless veterans from various branches of the military, many of whom had served in conflicts such as Somalia, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Korea. She quickly realized that every veteran carries the lasting impact of their military service.

The transition from military to civilian life is often a difficult period for veterans. Rediscovering their purpose and establishing a meaningful path through employment, education, or service is crucial. Many face struggles that can lead to depression, unemployment, and even homelessness. Conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, hearing loss, and illnesses resulting from toxic exposure can emerge years after service, affecting veterans at any stage of life. Combat veterans, in particular, experience higher rates of suicide and severe health complications due to the exceptional challenges they have endured.

Navigating the complex and ever-changing veterans’ benefits system adds another layer of difficulty. Understanding available resources and filing claims correctly requires knowledge, persistence, and time, creating additional stress. Beyond mental health and economic challenges, reintegrating into family and community life presents its own set of obstacles. Many veterans find it difficult to share their emotions and experiences, making it hard for their loved ones to fully understand what they have been through. Reconnecting with family and adjusting to civilian life often require a period of decompression, best supported by those who can truly empathize with their journey.

With a deep respect for veterans, Sister Stephanie found her role as a case manager to be an honor. She worked to help veterans secure employment and housing while connecting them with local Veteran Agencies that addressed their mental, physical, and financial challenges. While the Veterans Administration provided assistance to over 20 million veterans last year, she believes that every individual can contribute by supporting and expressing gratitude to those who have served.

How Sr. Stephanie Serves Veterans

Currently, Sister Stephanie continues her work by assisting homebound, disabled veterans living in veteran apartment facilities. She provides transportation to medical appointments, food pantries, and veteran events, ensuring they remain connected to essential services. Understanding that many veterans live on fixed incomes, she also supplies food, clothing, and personal items as needed.

In preparation for Veterans Day, she volunteers with the Bellevue University Military Center staff and other volunteers to assemble bags filled with clothing, personal supplies, and snacks. These care packages are distributed on Veterans Day to homeless veterans at the Siena Francis House and New Visions Veterans.

Sister Stephanie also remains actively involved in the Veterans Day Celebration at the Siena Francis House Homeless Shelter, a cause particularly close to her heart. She takes great joy in coordinating this annual event, ensuring that homeless veterans feel appreciated and recognized for their service. Through these efforts, she continues to make a meaningful impact, honoring the sacrifices of veterans and reaffirming her commitment to their well-being.