November marks Veterans Month, when we honor our current and former military members for their service and sacrifice. Humble Design Fueled by U-Haul focuses its efforts this month on furnishing homes for veterans transitioning out of homeless shelters.
Humble Design San Diego
The nonprofit Humble Design began in 2009 in Detroit. With the help of national sponsor U-Haul, it has expanded to serve Chicago, Seattle and San Diego.
In November, Humble Design San Diego welcomed formally homeless Air Force veteran Michael, and his family, to their new apartment. Townspeople, which provides emergency housing and assistance, assisted in the process.
“Michael is an extremely positive and upbeat veteran,” said Estee Alias, Director of Humble Design San Diego. “He has struggled with homelessness for over two years. He had been living in his apartment without the basic household necessities for two months. That’s when we stepped in to help.”
Humble Design provides the talents of volunteer designers with home furnishings donated by the community. These elements turned Michael’s empty apartment into a clean, dignified and welcoming home.
“Michael feels that this is a weight off his shoulders,” Alias added. “Now, he can focus on his job search and on reconnecting with his children. Michael and his family love the safe and comfortable home where they can thrive and have a bright future.”
Veteran Support
U-Haul, founded by a WWII Navy veteran and his wife in 1945, was built on the backs of service members. These veterans accounted for many of the first U-Haul Team Members, neighborhood dealers and customers, seeking to move their families to a better life after returning home from the war.
Today, U-Haul actively recruits veterans and gives them preference in the hiring process. Finally, U-Haul also earmarks a significant portion of its community contributions to honoring veterans, and assisting veteran organizations and causes.
