SAN ANTONIO — From war-torn Vietnam to living on the streets to finding faith, one San Antonio man is fighting for his fellow homeless veterans through a non-profit established six years ago.
“I was in Vietnam and we dealed with a lot of crazy stuff in Vietnam,” said Fred Alvarado, founder of Broken Warriors Angels.
Alvarado, who is from Corpus Christi and grew up in Detroit, Michigan served during the Tet Offensive of the Vietnam War in 1968.
The Army veteran recalled coming home to a hostile environment involving those opposed to at the time, America’s longest war.
“They were horrible, they’d spit at us, they’d call us names. At the airport I had to change my uniform to keep me from getting harassed,” Alvarado said.
Alvarado sunk into a dark place in life while raising a family but eventually his love for God fueled his desire to keep strong.
As founder of Broken Warriors Angels, Alvarado has assisted more than 700 veterans, providing a variety of assistance, including guidance with securing healthcare, clothing, food, and shelter.
“I give back to those that need our help because I’ve been through it. I was homeless,” Alvarado said.
The non-profit collaborates with numerous organizations to accomplish the mission of helping those who’ve served their country. Alvarado noted there’s an ongoing challenge with having enough affordable housing available in San Antonio and surrounding communities.
“We’re getting vouchers now but it’s difficult for the city housing to go out there and inspect this stuff. It’s all about a waiting process, it’s never easy,” Alvarado said.
Charlie Johnson of We Say Yes Homes is working with Broken Warriors Angels to place homeless veterans in affordable housing. Johnson noted there’s a goal to construct homes in San Antonio and Kerrville that could house more than a dozen people.
“There’s just such a need,” Johnson said. “Talking to some of the homeless vets, if they agree to go through the program, then they’ll have a way to earn wages and pay their way and so that we don’t have to completely rely on vouchers.”
Broken Warriors Angels is hosting a feast for veterans and the homeless community on Nov. 18 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at VFW Post 76 (10 10th Street, San Antonio, TX).
Socks, blankets and jackets will given out during the event.
To learn more about Broken Warriors Angels, go here.
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