An effort in Muskegon to provide stable housing to veterans kicks off tomorrow, Veterans Day.
Volunteers will open the Patriot House, it's at 1433 Clinton Street.
And as a sign of the significant homeless problems among the veteran population, one-third of the rooms are full before the center even opens.
The big old house with seven bedrooms is a small contribution to solve the housing problem for veterans in Muskegon County.
Jone Benedict is the founder of the Patriot House. She says the house had sat vacant for several year. She and a crew of veterans are working to get the house open and ready for residents.
"Whatever we can do to get these guys off the streets epically with the cold weather coming," said Benedict.
The house is privately funded and a not-for-profit entity.
Men can use the Patriot House from several weeks up to a year or more.
"I know that this is not going to be easy," said Benedict. "Homeless veterans are homeless for more than one reason, I'm just hoping and praying it goes well."
At a homeless summit last month in Muskegon 29-veterans indicated a need for housing.
Some say they live underneath bridges, others in tents or in vehicle.
The seven rooms are furnished. And there's donated clothing items too.
The Patriot House will hold an open house Friday November 11th, from noon to 2:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The home is at 1433 Clinton Street in Muskegon.