A Transformative Veterans Day Gift
On Veterans Day, Jose Armenta, a retired US Marine Corps corporal, and his family received a life-changing present in the form of a new, specially designed smart home, courtesy of the Gary Sinise Foundation. The modified smart home was designed to improve the ease-of-living and accessibility for the former Marine, who lost both legs during a deployment in Afghanistan.
Armenta participated in over 50 combat missions during his 2011 deployment in Afghanistan. Unfortunately, his life changed dramatically on August 28, 2011, when he was performing a routine search for improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Despite the significant challenges he has faced since that day, Armenta remains an inspiration to many, thanks to his incredible perseverance.
Noting his bravery and determination, the Gary Sinise Foundation chose to support Armenta and his family through their Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment (R.I.S.E.) program. The program aims to provide customized smart homes to injured veterans and first responders, helping them regain their independence and achieve a higher quality of life.
The Challenge of Navigating Home
Living in a wheelchair proved extremely difficult, especially in the narrow spaces of Armenta’s family home. Seeking a solution, he discovered the Gary Sinise Foundation, an organization created by actor and philanthropist Gary Sinise, which tirelessly advocates for veterans and first responders.
By constructing specially designed smart homes, the foundation’s R.I.S.E. program has already provided nearly 90 mortgage-free, adapted homes to combat-wounded veterans and first responders, designed for their maximum comfort, accessibility, and independence. Furthermore, the foundation also helps ensure that veterans and their families receive any additional resources they need for an effortless transition to civilian life.
Armenta was grateful for the support and aid dedicated to veterans and emphasized the importance of having a strong support network. “Knowing that we have support,” he said, “it means a lot to us.”
Embracing a New Home
Armenta and his family are now able to live comfortably in their new 2,900 square-foot smart home in Bonita. The home offers multiple accessible spaces, such as a customized kitchen with cabinetry designed for easy access.
The home’s open floor plan enables improved day-to-day interactions, and the spacious living area encourages quality family time. The home’s design is testament not only to its practicality and ease of use, but it also provides a modern, aesthetically appealing environment.
In their new home, Armenta and his family look forward to experiencing fewer obstacles. Embracing a positive mindset and remembering to count their blessings, they believe they are on the path to a happier life. Alongside the continued support from their loved ones and community, they can face any challenges that may arise, growing stronger than ever before.
The Gary Sinise Foundation’s Impact
The Gary Sinise Foundation’s commitment to aiding injured veterans and first responders, like Armenta, is truly outstanding. By providing custom smart homes designed to suit individual needs, they are able to help individuals regain their independence, rebuild their lives, and ultimately find happiness within their new environment. For Armenta and his family, receiving their new smart home has already begun to make a significant difference, improving their overall quality of life and fostering a more positive outlook for the future.
FAQs
Who is Jose Armenta?
Jose Armenta is a retired US Marine Corps corporal who lost both legs during a deployment in Afghanistan. He participated in over 50 combat missions during his 2011 deployment and is an inspiration to many due to his incredible perseverance.
What is the Gary Sinise Foundation?
The Gary Sinise Foundation is an organization created by actor and philanthropist Gary Sinise, which advocates for veterans and first responders. The foundation’s Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment (R.I.S.E.) program aims to provide customized smart homes to injured veterans and first responders, helping them regain their independence and achieve a higher quality of life.
How did the Gary Sinise Foundation help Jose Armenta?
The Gary Sinise Foundation provided Jose Armenta and his family with a new, specially designed smart home through their R.I.S.E. program. This modified smart home improves ease-of-living and accessibility for the former Marine, who lives in a wheelchair.
What features does the smart home have?
The smart home has a 2,900 square-foot, open floor plan designed for accessibility and comfort. It features a customized kitchen with cabinetry designed for easy access, spacious living areas that encourage family time, and a modern, aesthetically appealing environment.
What is the impact of the Gary Sinise Foundation on injured veterans and first responders?
The Gary Sinise Foundation’s commitment to aiding injured veterans and first responders is truly outstanding. By providing custom smart homes, they help individuals regain their independence, rebuild their lives, and ultimately find happiness within their new environment. For individuals like Jose Armenta and his family, receiving their new smart home has made a significant difference, improving their overall quality of life and fostering a more positive outlook for the future.
First Reported on: nbcsandiego.com
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Tranmautritam; Pexels; Thank you!
