Apr 7, 2025 | African Americans, Featured, Local, Los Angeles, Valleys

A New Chapter: How I Found Stability After Homelessness

Some property owners might hesitate to rent to veterans because they worry about income or stability. I get it, but I can tell you firsthand—Veterans like me are reliable tenants who just need an opportunity. We’re dedicated, hardworking, responsible individuals just looking for a chance to get back on our feet and build a stable future.

(Photo Credit: Keisha Brown)

By Harold Hicks, Jr. – U.S. Navy Veteran

There was a time when I lived in my car for over a year. I lost my job as the women’s softball team coach at Barstow Community College, where we reached our first playoffs in years and where I was voted Coach of the Year. Without steady income, I couldn’t afford my rent. At first, I told myself I could manage, that I could figure it out on my own. But as the weeks turned into months, I felt the weight of my situation crushing me. I was stuck in a cycle I couldn’t escape. But my pride wouldn’t let me ask for help. I was afraid of being judged, of being told I didn’t deserve it or didn’t qualify.

For a long time, it was just me and my truck. I didn’t tell anyone what I was going through. I kept wandering, trying to figure it out on my own. But after a year and a half of struggling, I finally decided that I needed help.

One day, I connected with a program that helps veterans like me find stable housing. I was hesitant at first, but when I made the call, I was surprised at how simple the process was. They helped me find an apartment, covered my security deposit, and even assisted with moving costs. HACLA made sure I had everything I needed to get settled, including transportation to check out rental units. Before I knew it, I had a place to call home.

Why Property Owners Should Join

As someone who has experienced homelessness, I can tell you firsthand how important it is to have a place to call your own. For property owners with available units, this program makes a real difference. It covers move-in costs, security deposits, and even offers bonuses. Plus, it guarantees reliable rent payments and up to $2,000 for repairs beyond the deposit. This isn’t just about filling a vacancy – it’s about offering someone the chance to rebuild their life.

HACLA handles all the paperwork, so you don’t have to worry about the details. You get support every step of the way. With guaranteed rent, fewer vacancies, and financial incentives, this is a win-win for everyone.

Now that I have a stable home, I can finally focus on my family again. I no longer have to stress about where I’ll sleep, and I can do simple things like cooking meals for my family without worrying about my next move. The peace of mind this program gave me is something I hope other veterans get to experience.

Breaking Barriers Together

There are misconceptions about veterans, but the truth is, we’re good people who have fallen on hard times. If property owners take a chance, they’ll find some of the most grateful and dependable tenants out there.

Take the Next Step

If you know a veteran who needs help, tell them to reach out. If you’re a property owner and have rental units available, especially studio and 1-bedroom units, please take a minute to contact HACLA to see how you might change a veteran’s life: email [email protected], call (213) 252-4231 or visit HACLA.org/houseourvets. It only takes one step to make a difference.

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On January 2, 2025, Mayor Karen Bass launched an initiative to fast-track housing for Veterans urging property owners to rent to Veterans using federal housing vouchers. This initiative builds on last year’s progress in cutting red tape.

Since 2008, the HUD-VASH program has worked to house homeless Veterans and their families through a collaboration between HUD and the VA. By pairing Section 8 rental assistance vouchers with case management and clinical services offered by VA medical centers, the combination helps veterans re-integrate into the community, maintain stable housing, and lead to healthy lives.

Now the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, in close collaboration with the Mayor’s Office, the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, and other local city and county housing authorities, are working together to reduce the time it takes for unhoused veterans to access safe and stable housing. This effort includes additional staff dedicated to veterans, as well as enhanced support and streamlined processes for property owners, rental housing providers, and landlords interested in housing veterans.