Warrior Homes of Collier helps Veterans rebuild lives, aims to end homelessness

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

Warrior Homes of Collier is working to end Veteran homelessness in Collier County by providing housing, mental health support, and education to those who have served.

Dale Mullin, founder of Warrior Homes of Collier, alongside Shiv Manga, a U.S. Marine and Veteran, visited Good Morning Gulf Coast Tuesday, to talk about the organization's mission.

It operates six properties with 39 beds, including a 10-unit apartment building called Delta House, and serves residents ranging in age from their early 30s to their 90s.

The goal is what Mullin calls "functional zero" homelessness.

“Functional zero is achieved when a community’s monthly housing placements exceed the number of people becoming homeless," Mullin said. "This ensures homelessness is rare, brief, and nonrecurring. It doesn’t mean zero people will ever experience housing instability, but that the system can instantly address it.”

Collier County is close to achieving "functional zero" for its Veteran population, according to Mullin. He says Warrior Homes is working to make it a reality within a year.

Manga, a U.S. Marine Veteran and client of Warrior Homes, shared his experience with the program. Manga recently completed Veterans Treatment Court, a one-year program that allowed him to avoid jail after a minor offense by staying in structured, supervised housing.

"Warrior Homes gives stability – safe housing, a routine and a plan for what’s next,” Manga said.

He added that the program connected him to mental health support, education, and employment opportunities, helping him rebuild his confidence and accountability.

The organization also offers educational scholarships to Veterans and their families to help them transition into post-military careers.

As Memorial Day approaches, Mullin encouraged the community to honor Veterans by volunteering, hosting events to benefit Warrior Homes, or donating to local Veteran organizations.

For more information about Warrior Homes of Collier, visit their website.

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