Reconnecting veterans to our community.

About 550 homeless veterans live in Central Illinois -
on our streets, in our shelters or moving from one friend
or relative's home to another. Statistics tell us most
received honorable military discharges and hold a high
school diploma or GED, but many are dealing with
alcohol, drug or mental health issues.

Helping these veterans reintegrate into society - finding housing, employment and support services - is key to Goodwill's mission to promote self-sufficiency. Our General Wayne A. Downing Home for Veterans is the only one of its kind in the state of Illinois exclusively serving homeless veterans, providing housing, food, counseling and access to schooling and job training for up to 10 individuals.

It's a home, not a shelter, and the goal is long-term, positive behavior change that helps our residents reconnect with family and friends and re-enter the job market.