From Frontlines to Foundations – Lynn’s Story

As a 73 year-old Vietnam veteran, Lynn has lived through battles most of us can’t imagine. He’s faced loss, hardship, and moments of overwhelming uncertainty. But through it all, he’s never stopped fighting for hope, even when faced with the possibility of being homeless.

A few years ago, Lynn was living in a two-bedroom apartment in Marysville. The split-level space was difficult for Lynn to navigate since he had lost a leg in a woodcutting accident. However, it was home, and for Lynn, that was enough. This was until his landlord announced a $500 rent increase, which was more than half of what Lynn was paying at the time. Lynn decided to take the matter to court and managed to buy himself a few more months before the financial hit would be unavoidable. Deep down, he knew he was on borrowed time and had to figure out a plan fast.

At the time, Lynn had nowhere to go and no family to turn to. With no other options, Lynn packed what he could and moved into the Life Building Center, a coordinated entry site for people in need of housing. There, he had a bed, food, and basic necessities, but he knew it was temporary and his future was uncertain. At his age, in a wheelchair, the thought of ending up on the streets terrified him. Lynn even began planning out how he would need to hook his leg to his wheelchair at night, just in case someone tried to steal it while he slept.

But then, a glimmer of hope appeared. Chai, a Veteran’s Association representative, connected Lynn to Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter. Together, they filled out an application for affordable housing, and soon Lynn was approved for an affordable housing unit in Prosperity Village. Moving in felt like a turning point, a second chance that Lynn desperately needed. His new apartment was simple with a bed, a microwave, a hot plate, and a dresser, but to Lynn, it was more than enough. It was a safe place and somewhere that he could start to rebuild his life.

At Prosperity Village, Lynn’s monthly payment is significantly less, which has allowed him to focus on other aspects of his life. He’s now saving up for a Toyota Tacoma to give him the freedom to move around without relying on the city bus, since it only can take him so far before he has to wheel himself the rest of the way to his destination.

While the affordable rent is definitely a relief, what truly makes Prosperity Village special for Lynn is the sense of community. His best friend Byron, another veteran and resident at Prosperity, helped him settle in and is always there to offer Lynn a helping hand. Additionally, Lynn claims the staff at Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter have been incredibly supportive, from fixing things around his apartment to keeping the place clean, and even giving him quarters for laundry. It’s these small acts of kindness that remind Lynn he’s not alone.

This support is deeply appreciated by Lynn considering his own loss of family. Three years ago, his daughter passed away in a motorcycle accident, leaving him with just his own grief and no one to console in. His daughter was his rock and a hardworking woman who was always helping others before herself. Lynn misses her every single day, but he knows she’s looking down on him, proud of the progress he’s made. It’s her memory that keeps him going, inspiring him to be patient and to keep pushing forward, and that’s exactly what Lynn has done.

With the stability provided by his affordable housing unit, Lynn has found a new sense of self-sufficiency. Once he saves enough for a truck, he dreams of getting back on the road and exploring parts of California he’s never seen. In the meantime, he makes the most out of the resources around him including the bus system, local churches, and food giveaways, as he works towards his next steps.

For Lynn, his experience with Habitat for Humanity Yuba/Sutter has been nothing short of life changing. He wants people in the community to know that Habitat for Humanity offers more than just housing—it offers hope. He also encourages any veterans to reach out to the available resources within the community. Chai, Lynn’s VA representative, still comes by every month to check on him and make sure he’s doing well.

“It makes you feel good, knowing someone is always there looking out for you,” Lynn says.

Through shared kindness and resources, Lynn has not only secured affordable housing but has also regained a sense of belonging. His story reminds us all that with a little help, we can overcome even the toughest battles and work towards a brighter future. Thank you for being an inspiration to us and welcome home, Lynn!