Ray Starling, a retired Army specialist, served his country proudly for many years, stationed in Germany with the first active chemical unit. However, his life took a different turn after a training injury forced him to return to the United States. Despite a career in designing and manufacturing, unforeseen circumstances left him homeless, living in shelters and his car for four months.

Rising Veteran Homelessness

Veteran homelessness has been on the rise nationally and in Texas, with a 7.4% increase reported nationwide and a 13% increase in Texas in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs. This trend reflects the struggles faced by many veterans like Starling.

Tarrant County’s Solution

Tarrant County, however, has made significant strides in combating veteran homelessness. Since 2018, the county has successfully reduced veteran homelessness by 42%, a testament to its effective strategies and community support.

Tarrant County Homeless Coalition Executive Director Lauren King attributes this success to partnerships with various agencies and programs designed to support veterans. These initiatives include homeless prevention efforts, case management services, and job training programs aimed at helping veterans stabilize their lives and regain independence. “The VA has invested in homeless prevention to help veterans from ever losing their housing and giving them a chance to stabilize,” King said. “There are a lot of job training and career training programs for veterans.” The coalition also collaborates closely with local landlords to secure housing for veterans and receives funding to assist veterans with rent payments.

A Story of Resilience and Hope

Ray Starling’s journey from homelessness back to stability is a testament to the effectiveness of these programs. Now serving on the advisory council for the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition, Starling is dedicated to helping other veterans who find themselves in similar situations.

“It’s just my way to help give back to the community,” Starling said. As he reflects on his own experiences, Starling remains grateful for the support he received and is committed to paying it forward. His story serves as an inspiration to others and a reminder of the resilience of veterans facing homelessness.

How You Can Help

If you are a veteran experiencing homelessness or know someone who is, the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition encourages you to call its helpline at 817-996-8800. Assistance and support are available to help veterans access the resources they need to regain stability and thrive in their communities.