In two weeks, London’s new Homes for Heroes Veterans Village will welcome its first residents to a new facility near Parkwood Hospital. The village will offer support and care to 25 at-risk veterans and those transitioning from homelessness. Pat O’Hagan, one of the village’s earliest backers, can’t believe the day he waited for is almost here. “Recently I stood in the parking lot and cried my eyes out, I actually broke down.” Built for $6 million, the village will require additional funds to operate support programs. On Tuesday, just before Remembrance Day, the WSIB stepped up. “I am pleased to announce the WSIB is investing $1 million in the Homes for Heroes Foundation to support the Veterans Village right here in London, Ontario,” said Jeff Lang, president and CEO. Community support has gone a long way towards creating the village. A $4 million anonymous donation was made earlier this year. But it’s the collective backing of Londoners that truly impresses Brad Field, the president and CEO of HFH. “It is an investment that is a gamechanger,” he told those gathered at the village. “And it will help our men and women that have served this country move forward in their journey and reintegration towards civilian life.” Training for onsite staff begins next week. “It warms my heart, and it will warm my heart when the official ribbon cutting takes place. It will warm my heart when these homes are occupied by veterans that deserve the care that Canada and Homes for Heroes will deliver,” said HFH committee member and Retired Lieutenant General Peter Devilin. The pledge to care brought O’Hagan to tears. “It’s happening; it’s incredible, Sean; I can’t believe it!”
