Veteran Tom Halliwell (left) with Todd Hughes, Goodwill Veterans Services Program manager

For many in their sunset years, there is the promise of relaxation, the enjoyment of cultural amenities, and comfort. But for too many seniors – particularly veterans – aging can be fraught with anxiety as they try to live on fixed incomes in a world where the cost of living only goes up. Sarasota resident, 93-year-old World War II-era Army veteran Tom Halliwell, recently lost his housing. Distressed, Halliwell stopped in at the Goodwill Manasota Veterans Services Program office and met with program manager Todd Hughes. Hughes provided Halliwell with some pre-made meals from Meals on Wheels Sarasota, then connected him with a case manager at Jewish Family & Children’s Service. Others got involved, too: Mattress Firm sold a mattress for Halliwell at cost, Goodwill provided furnishings from its Bargain Barn and Streets of Paradise contributed as well. Veterans living at Harvest House helped him to move in.

Veteran Tom Halliwell (left) with Todd Hughes, Goodwill Veterans Services Program manager