City of San Angelo’s Neighborhood and Family Services Department, Homeless Coalition sets goal to end veteran homelessness in 2021

KLST/KSAN (Nexstar TV)
11/06/2020

Veteran homelessness has been an ongoing issue in San Angelo for years. Our neighboring city, Abilene, eradicated veteran homelessness more than one year ago and many citizens demanded action from San Angelo's officials to do the same. It's especially close to our residents' hearts because we have an Air Force base in the city and many active duty military members decide to stay in San Angelo or come back to San Angelo after they retire.

Many organizations, like the ones featured in this piece, are leery of news attention so gaining their trust took some time. Along with any other stories told in 2020, the pandemic added extra challenges to scheduling interviews and getting b-roll while meeting all safety standards. The issue of homelessness is also an extremely private matter for many individuals so that added another layer of obstacles to coverage.

After this story was published, I received several calls from citizens who wanted to get involved with the organizations that were working to support the homeless coalition so, I was able to make those connections. Paul Keeton, the Director of Veterans Services at West Texas Counseling and Guidance, also sent me the attached message via LinkedIn. The other screenshot is from their official Facebook page stating they saw an increase in clients throughout 2020.

Knowing that I was able to use my work and platform to help several veterans meant so much to me. I always approach each day with the mindset, "How can I help at least one person today?" We may not always have the chance to save thousands of lives but, who knows what the future holds for that one person we can help right now? They may be the person who ends up coming to our rescue one day.

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Submitted by Senora Scott.