CHARLESTON, SC –
A new charity based in Charleston is helping Lowcountry veterans better adjust to life after service.
Founded in August, the Palmetto Warrior Connection aids veterans in finding jobs, education options, and housing among other things. PWC Director Jermaine Husser said it is about giving to those that gave to the country. “We’re giving hope” said Husser. “We’re here as a organization trying to help warriors that are transitioning from military to civilian life.”
The transition from the service to regular life is crucial. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, a veteran commits suicide every 65 minutes. “The reason why that happens is because of isolation but as well as they lose hope” said Husser. “as an organization being the first stop for warriors that are transitioning, we have that ability to provide that hope and build them a plan for them and their families.”
Most of veterans in the PWC are from the post 9/11 era, there are some from older military bouts. Patrick and Meladdi O’Rourke served in the navy for nine years including during Desert Storm and are grateful for what the program has done for them since they did not have the luxury of such programs in the nineties. “they’re bringing this to everybody” said Meladdi O’Rourke who was injured during her service. “And making people aware of it and helping people like me who came back and didn’t have any place to go.
For more information on the Palmetto Warrior Connection, visit their website: https://palmettowarriorconnection.org/
