U.S. Veteran Roland N.: Back Home and “Exactly Where I’m Supposed to Be”
05/11/2023 This post was written by Beth Smith
A father, U.S. Veteran, and a native of St. Paul, Roland is glad to be living in the heart of his old neighborhood.
At age 54, Roland’s incredible work ethic and optimism have equipped him for fulfilling adventures across the country and overseas, and eventually at Bridging. With optimism and wisdom — and always a smile — he shares his story and a glimpse of his next chapter.
Roland left Minnesota three decades ago to serve four years in the U.S. Coast Guard, working as a cook. Returning to civilian life, his keen eye for detail and technical mind landed him a well-paying job as a factory foreman. Throughout, he supported his family and encouraged his two children to set goals and work diligently to achieve them. Later on, Roland embarked on “a million mile journey” over 10 years moving inventory cross-country as a master truck driver.
Roland returned to live and work in St. Paul and soon experienced a major health crisis.
“I hurt my back and required surgery. I could no longer work,” he says. I could no longer take care of myself like I used to. I lost my job, my apartment, my car, everything.”
Roland was unhoused for many months, not knowing where to turn. At the suggestion of a friend, he reached out to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for help. The VA connected Roland to Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) where he secured housing resources and a partner agency referral to Bridging.
Roland went to Bridging to select furniture and other essential items for his new home. He encountered dignity and kindness that were beyond his expectations.
“The volunteers were so helpful. I felt comforted that there are people who want to help you get out of a bad spot. Someone no longer needed this furniture, and now I get to use it. … A feeling washed over me; I felt so grateful. I shed a lot of tears, and I learned something — how important it is to help other people — because I experienced it myself.”
Sipping iced tea in his living room, Roland reflected on how a furnished home through Bridging impacts his outlook and daily life.
“I like my loveseat and dresser. I got a table. I like that chair. I didn’t want to take too much. … I sit here on my loveseat and watch the sun come up. It feels so comforting,” he says.
Feeling at home, Roland prepares for an upcoming surgery that he hopes will provide significant relief for all the possibilities that await him.
“I’ve been working for 39 years. I’ve been a leader and a hard worker. I’m still thinking about what I want to do,” he says.
“I didn’t know my life would change this much in a year. Everyone was so helpful — the VA hospital, MACV, and Bridging. The experience made me look at things a lot differently. I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, and I’ve got a lot of strength and shine left for the future.”
The 2023 spring fundraising appeal at Bridging is off and running!
As a supporter of Bridging, your donation has a meaningful impact as thousands of individuals and families experience comfort, hope, and new beginnings in homes they furnish at Bridging! Will you join us by making a financial gift today?