A Vietnam Veteran in United States of America may be forced out of his home because it is literally falling apart, but one woman is putting the word out to try to keep that from happening and make his house livable again.
According to a report on AXII, 77-year-old veteran James Smith has been living at this home on Ross and College for more than 40 years, but now it’s falling apart.
The community is coming together for him, but they still need help.
James Autry Smith is proud of his roots.
“I’m named after Gene Autry. He autographed a picture for me,” said Smith.
He’s proud of America. In 1960 he volunteered for the Army and served in Vietnam.
And he’s proud of his home, where he lived alongside his wife for four decades.
“She passed away Nov. 4, 2014. I miss her very much,” said smith.
He says that’s when he began to lose control of his home.
Joi Biddle, also a Vietnam veteran, heard about the condition of Smith’s home a few days ago and wanted to help.
She says the walls are crumbling, the plumbing doesn’t work, critters have infested the home and mold is growing in several places.
“The walls are torn up. They’re down to the beams. He needs solid foundation in there,” said Biddle.
Biddle reached out to various businesses for help, and she has already gotten responses.
Representatives from Home Depot said the store would be willing to help.
TCOG says they can help with repairs, weatherize Smith’s home and provide utility assistance.
Two local roofers have offered to replace Smith’s roof, and a plumber has offered to help as well.
Biddle says she still needs volunteers to make sure Smith doesn’t have to go to assisted living if the county deems the house unlivable.
“I really would like for the community to step up to the plate and get it back to how it was when him and his wife were together before she passed,” said Biddle.
Smith is floored by the community’s response already.
“It’s a dream come true. I didn’t think people cared that much but they do,” said Smith.
To help, call Joi Biddle at 954-857-6518.