One year ago, 28-year-old veteran Chris watched as his dream of a happy, intact family slipped out of reach when his marriage dissolved. After five years of service in the Marine Corps, Chris, who became a stay-at-home dad for his one-year-old son Charlie, found himself faced with the very real possibility of becoming homeless.

“It was an incredibly difficult time,” said Chris. “I never imagined that homelessness could happen to me. Luckily, I came to Interfaith for help, and the very next day I moved into their Veterans Housing program in Oceanside.”

Designed specifically to help struggling veterans transitioning out of military service into civilian life, Interfaith’s Veterans Housing program provides veterans with counseling services, behavioral health therapy, vocational and academic planning, job training, case management, and life skills development.

For Chris, one-on-one counseling, academic planning, and weekly life skills workshops helped him build confidence and develop the tools he needed to be successful. Because of the opportunities and support Interfaith provided, Chris was also able to spend considerable time with Charlie while also working toward his academic goals and attending Palomar College.

In October 2009, Chris successfully graduated Interfaith’s program, transitioning to independent living. Today, he continues to pursue his studies toward a college degree in architectural design, with an emphasis on environmental and sustainability aspects.

“Without a doubt, Interfaith has given me the tools I need to continue to be successful,” said Chris. “They have provided me with the opportunity to change for the better, both as a person and as a father. It’s been a life-changing experience for which I am completely grateful.”