HOPKINSVILLE, KY (2/20/12) – The grand opening of the Pennyroyal Veterans Center drew dignitaries from all levels of government along with many private citizens Monday morning. The 50-bed facility is designed to meet the needs of homeless veterans and is expected to take in its first residents by early March.
It was standing room only as officials took time to commemorate the special day. U.S. Senator Rand Paul took to the podium and said, “We ask a great deal from our young men and women when we send them off to war. I think our obligation doesn’t end when they come home.” Congressman Ed Whitfield was unable to attend, but Michael Pape, his District Director spoke on his behalf, “No soldier that’s ever served this country should ever by homeless in the United States of American and this is our commitment to that.”
After a few remarks made indoors, everyone was invited to gather outside for the official raising of the first flags. The U.S. and Kentucky flags were presented by State Senator Joey Pendleton. This was followed by the ceremonial ribbon cutting. Attendees were then invited back inside for refreshments and tours of the facility.
Coordinator for the Pennyroyal Veterans Center, Howard Dixon said there is such a need for this type of facility in this area. He says the goal of the program is to take people from homelessness to self-sufficiency. In order to do that, they will provide a needs-assessment for each resident. They will be able to provide substance abuse and mental health treatment, case management, job skills training, financial training and employment opportunities. The facility will be open to homeless veterans who have anything other than a dishonorable discharge.
Dixon says the community can get involved by helping with their Sponsor-a-Room Program. He says the rooms are bare and in need of items such as sheets, blankets, towels, lamps and wall decorations. They have estimated the cost at around $500 per room. Dixon says people can donate money or items and his staff will decorate the room. He says people are also welcome to come out and do the decorating work themselves. Anyone wanting more information or to get involved should call 270-887-5099.
David Bryant
SurfKY News
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