In a move honoring the service and sacrifices of military veterans, St. Johns County has thrown its financial support behind the Veterans Village of St. Johns. During their January 21, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) approved a resolution to allocate $125,000 for the 2025 fiscal year to Home Again St. Johns, Inc. As reported by St. Johns County's official website, these funds will be used to cover the operational costs for Veterans Village, which has been repurposed from the former St. Augustine's Old Town Inn to provide supportive housing to military veterans.
"Everything we like about living here in America and the right to voice our opinion about the things we don't like – all those things are only possible because of our veterans putting themselves in harm's way," in a statement obtained by the official St. Johns County's website, County Commissioner Christian Whitehurst stated. Having joined forces with the Veterans Council of St. Johns County, Home Again St. Johns acquired the motel on Anastasia Island to repurpose it for veterans' housing. Established as a sanctuary, Veterans Village aims to offer a secure and supportive environment for veterans who are seeking to stabilize their lives.
With a 20-unit complex, Veterans Village provides transitional and permanent affordable housing. The facility offers an array of wraparound supportive services, from healthcare and mental health support to addiction recovery and employment assistance. "It's been a great opportunity to give them the safety and security that they now have here at the Veterans Village," Bill Dudley, Chairman of the Veterans Council, told St. Johns County's official website.
The grant funding from St. Johns County encompasses an envisaged multitude of veteran needs, encompassing but not restricted to case management, resource referral, employment activities, and substance support, according to the county's announcement. Additionally, it provides for other financial assistance not covered by insurance or the VA, aiming to ensure that veterans can remain gainfully employed and housed. "When you look at what a veteran has done for us, to be honest, it seems like such a small way for us to show our appreciation," County Commissioner Ann Taylor expressed in an interview with St. Johns County's official website.
Home Again St. Johns' action to transform a neglected motel into a haven for veterans rebuilds not just the physical structures, but the hope of many former service members. "It was so important that we helped stand this up; they were so close to making Veterans Village a reality, and it was our privilege and honor to be able to make that come to fruition," County Commissioner Sarah Arnold conveyed in a sentiment shared with the county's publication.
