
By Gavin Boyle
The Gary Sinise Foundation crossed a major milestone as it donated its 100th home to a disabled veteran, specially designed to fit his needs.
“It’s finally here! Today, the Gary Sinise Foundation dedicates our 100th mortgage-free, specially adapted smart home to U.S. Army Sergeant First Class (Ret.) Joe Bowser. This is a huge milestone and we could not have done it without the support of the American people. 🇺🇸,” the organization celebrated on Instagram.
“Today, we celebrate not only Joe’s new home, but also a milestone: 100 homes built for our nation’s most severely wounded heroes,” the foundation added. “Welcome home, Joe, and here’s to 100 more homes for America’s defenders. 💙”
Related: Gary Sinise Foundation Helps Build Smart Home for Wounded Iraq War Veteran
Since being founded in 2012, the Gary Sinise Foundation has worked to recognize and support America’s veterans. One of its most impactful initiatives is providing homes for injured veterans who have difficulty living a fulfilling life in a normal home layout.
“Gary Sinise Foundation continues to build homes for our most severely wounded heroes through our R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program,” Sinise explained. “You see, home is where most of us take comfort from the world, but for our severely wounded heroes, life there can be a constant battle. Simple everyday tasks are challenging and frustrating. Our smart homes provide accessibility and a safe haven to help empower these warriors to reclaim their independence.”
Sinise fostered a heart not only for veterans but for wounded veterans after portraying Lieutenant Dan in FORREST GUMP, a man who loses both of his legs in Vietnam. The character not only accurately portrayed the difficulties of getting around after such an injury but also captured the emotional burden of coming home forever changed.
“Back in the ’80s, I was very involved with supporting various Vietnam veterans’ organizations in Chicago. And, you know – and then, after playing the disabled veteran in FORREST GUMP, that kind of turned a little bit of a corner toward trying to help our wounded, but it really all just kind of catapulted after the attacks of September 11,” Sinise said.
Beyond providing homes for injured veterans, Sinise impacts millions who have served our country through a variety of initiatives. These include free meals, concerts, mental health retreats, financial support and raised awareness about what our nation’s heroes sacrifice to keep our country safe.
Sinise’s impact is truly incredible. Praise the Lord for the work he and his foundation are doing, and the 100 homes that have been created to give wounded veterans a better life.
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