From Service to Struggle

Gregory Searls served his country with pride as a Navy equipment operator from 1968 to 1970, working at bases including Naval Base San Diego and Naval Air Station Pensacola. Inspired by his father's military service, Searls described his time in uniform as formative. "It taught me how to be a man," he shared.

But the transition to civilian life proved unexpectedly difficult. Like many Veterans of his era, Searls faced criticism rather than recognition for his service. Without adequate support systems, he struggled with employment and housing challenges that eventually led to substance use and addiction. For years, he navigated these hardships alone until a fellow Veteran encouraged him to seek help from the VA.

Finding a Pathway to Recovery

The process of getting connected was straightforward, Searls recalled. "Just come in and say 'I need help.'" With support from his son and VA staff, he entered treatment for substance use and began the difficult work of rebuilding his life.

VA outreach social worker Ivan Ferrouillet connected Searls to the HUD-VASH program, which provides housing vouchers and case management services to Veterans experiencing homelessness. "He got me into a shelter for Veterans," Searls said. "It made me feel better that I could finally get away."

Searls was enrolled in an enhanced version of HUD-VASH designed specifically for aging or disabled Veterans who need more intensive medical supports and community connections. VA social worker Dr. Roshonda Tolbert worked closely with him to secure permanent housing, coordinate medical care, address transportation barriers, and help him develop independent living skills.

Rediscovering Life Beyond Survival

With stable housing secured, Searls could focus on maintaining his sobriety and rediscovering simple joys he had long forgotten. "She turned me on to other things outside of drugs and let me know there are other things I can do," Searls said of Dr. Tolbert. "She offered me a chance to see better things and get involved in different activities. It had been so long since I did something simple, like going to the movies, and she made that happen."

Today, Searls enjoys riding his scooter around his neighborhood and participating in HUD-VASH activities. He looks forward to strengthening his spirituality and building meaningful relationships. Most importantly, he has developed a support network of fellow Veterans who understand his experiences and provide ongoing encouragement.

Housing as a Foundation for Hope

Searls' story illustrates how housing stability serves as the foundation for addressing other critical needs. Many aging Veterans face challenges that extend beyond medical care, including social isolation and limited access to resources. VA social workers play a vital role in connecting Veterans to comprehensive services that promote safety, independence, and quality of life.

For Searls, housing provided stability and community provided connection. With support from dedicated VA professionals, he no longer fears being forgotten. Instead, he feels seen, supported, and hopeful about the future. Veterans facing housing instability or homelessness can call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 or contact MyVA411 at 800-698-2411 to connect with a VA social worker.

This article is based on reporting by VA News.