My Nonprofit Reviews

My name is Peter Swanson and I'm a disabled post-Vietnam War era veteran. I found myself homeless after Hurricane Hermine struck the west coast of Florida in Sept. 2016. And, as a result of the destruction inflicted upon the region and the storm's aftermath, I wound up "living" -- if that's what you want to call it -- in my car in the parking lot of a local mall. I called a few friends to see if they could provide any kind of help at all, only to find that they were worse off than I was. Now really finding myself in dire straits, I dialed the Mission in Citrus Veterans Shelter in Inverness and was referred to their civilian branch in neighboring Crystal River. Within two hours of being interviewed at the C.R. shelter I was assured that I wouldn't have to spend yet one more sleepless night in my car as the vet's shelter had a room and bed available. So I hopped into my car and off I went to Inverness.

Having spent time living in a shelter previously, I was yet quite unsure of what to expect on arrival at the Inverness facility, but was quite relieved once there. "This can't be a shelter", I said to myself, "this is a home." Shelter, home, whatever you want to call it, I have only good things to say about the place; good things such as:

- It's been a tremendous help in my efforts to achieve sobriety; my ongoing fight against the addictions from which I've suffered all too many years. And as I've since renewed my faith in God (the Mission's motto is, by the way, "God runs things around here") I've once again learned to put my trust in not only Him, but His people as well, and let them back into my life. That said, no resident is compelled to believe in God or to attend services; they're perfectly free to worship, or not worship, as they choose.

- I've reestablished contact with my local V.A. clinic and the medical staff is helping me to deal with other serious issues effecting my health; issues that are, for all practical purposes, here to stay. Beforehand I found myself in a very dark place indeed; but now I'm beginning to sense a light, a Presence at the end of that tunnel.

- And finally: I give my heartfelt thanks to, not only the founder and executive director of the Mission himself, Jim Sleighter, but to the mostly volunteer staff (all previously homeless themselves) who work 'round the clock to help those who find themselves in the same situation both he and they once were. I simply cannot express gratitude enough for all the good that's happened in my life since I've arrived at the Mission Shelter; and it's inspired me to help others who are now, or those may one day find themselves in, the same position I found myself. I'm truly blessed, and thank all of you so very much for all the care, guidance, and assistance you've provided to, not only me, but the countless others you've helped to get back on their feet; those who've found renewed hope in becoming proud and productive American citizens once again. May God bless you all in turn.