Angel has little memory of his military service and prefers it that way. After leaving the military, he felt lost the transition from a strict, structured environment to freedom was overwhelming. Thanks to his family’s support, he managed to stay afloat during those challenging times.
A few years ago, a breakup left Angel homeless, and his mental health rapidly declined. After a stay at a mental health facility, he was referred to Volunteers of America Florida’s Cocoa Veterans Village, where he began to thrive. Though he faced setbacks and returned briefly to intensive care, Angel came back stronger each time.
Grateful for the support he received, Angel started volunteering every Friday at Veterans Village, distributing clothes and hygiene products he helped collect through his own American Legion connections.
One special moment Angel recalls vividly was the day new furniture from the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) arrived at Veterans Village. That first night on his new bed, despite battling intense insomnia and sleep apnea conditions requiring him to use a CPAP machine, he finally slept through the night like a baby. Though it was only one night, this simple act of care and support reminded him that someone truly cared about his well-being.
After years of hard work and healing, in August 2025 Angel moved into Space Coast Commons, an affordable housing community managed by Volunteers of America Florida. Excited for the future, he is learning to live independently again. What gives him confidence and hope is his trust in VOAF’s ongoing support knowing they will be there for him. Angel is sure he will succeed.