News Summary
David Mathis, a retired Army Sergeant First Class and double amputee, has received a mortgage-free, handicap-accessible home in Evans, Georgia, through A Soldier’s Journey Home. Built in just 14 days by over 120 volunteers, the custom home is designed to meet Mathis’s specific needs as a disabled veteran, highlighting the importance of supporting those who have served in the military. This initiative serves as a testament to community efforts in recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans.
Evans, Georgia: Combat Veteran Receives Specialized Home
David Mathis, a retired Army Sergeant First Class and double amputee, has received a mortgage-free, handicap-accessible home in Evans, Georgia, tailored specifically to his needs. The home, constructed by the national nonprofit A Soldier’s Journey Home, is part of an ongoing effort to provide custom housing for disabled veterans.
Construction of the Home
The building project took place over a remarkable period of just 14 days, completed by a dedicated team of 120 volunteers from across the nation. This custom home spans over 2,700 square feet and includes three bedrooms and 3½ bathrooms, ensuring that it is equipped to accommodate Mathis’s specific requirements. Prior to the construction, Mathis collaborated with the organization to design the home, ensuring it would meet his unique needs as a disabled veteran.
Significance of the Home
Mathis lost both of his legs to an improvised explosive device (IED) during a tour in the Middle East, making this new home an important milestone in his life. The project aims not only to provide him with improved living conditions but also to serve as a testament to the sacrifices he made for his country. Volunteers, including Roy Wright, a retired Columbia County Fire Captain, underscored the importance of this initiative by expressing that Mathis truly deserves this home due to his significant sacrifices.
Support and Volunteer Work
Volunteers from 25 different states came together to assist with the construction, showcasing a remarkable level of support and cooperation throughout the entire process. Site Manager John Capretta noted the smooth workflow, highlighting the commitment and teamwork displayed by all those involved. Volunteers reported a sense of accomplishment and pride in contributing to a cause that directly impacts the lives of veterans like Mathis.
Background of A Soldier’s Journey Home
A Soldier’s Journey Home was founded in the wake of the 9/11 attacks by New York firefighters with the mission to give back to veterans by building homes for those who are disabled. The Evans home marks the 11th such project completed by the organization, which has successfully constructed houses for veterans across various states including Georgia, Tennessee, Illinois, Texas, Ohio, Maine, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Louisiana.
Veteran’s Response
Upon receiving the new home, Mathis expressed his deep emotional gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from individuals he had never met. He described this project as unprecedented and was astounded by the magnitude of efforts put forth by the volunteers to create a customized living environment designed to enhance his quality of life.
As Mathis takes residence in his new home, it stands as a beacon of hope and support for disabled veterans and a reminder of the community’s commitment to recognizing and honoring their sacrifices.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Finding Solutions – Non-Profit Builds Local Veteran New Home
- Wikipedia: Disabled Veterans
- WRDW: Volunteers Building Disabled Veteran New Home – Evans
- Google Search: Home for Disabled Veterans
- Boulder City Review: Golden Opportunity for Local Veteran
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Veterans Affairs
- Dignity Memorial: Connie Evans Zgrodek
- Google News: Veteran Housing Projects
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
