Habitat for Humanity renovates Vietnam Veteran Steven Phillips’ home

SALISBURY, Md. – Veterans say living on a fixed income after retiring can be difficult when unexpected living expenses come up. Thanks to habitat for humanity, local Vietnam Veteran Steven Phillips lives in Salisbury on a fixed income and he and his family are getting the materials and help they need to repair their home in Salisbury.

“What’s going on here is unbelievable, it’s surreal. I am living a dream.”

Monday, Habitat for Humanity organized crews to come out and make much needed repairs to his home. Phillips says he’s been struggling this last year to stay on top of his bills and house upkeep. Habitat Director Molly Hilligoss, has partnered with Owens Corning to repair the thirty-one year old roof, over flowing septic system and replace the original windows.

“Today is a very special day this is our one hundredth project we are completing in Wicomico County since 2013.”

Hilligoss said it took months of work, but the organization was about to obtain a check for 150-thousand-dollars.

“A local attorney reached out to us with a unique problem,” Hilligoss said. “She had to create a trust that could only benefit Vietnam Veterans and I said, hello I have several Vietnam veterans that need home repairs, why not just give the money to us.”

“This is incredibly important for this Vietnam veteran and his family to be able to live out their life, where they want to be in their home.”

Phillips says he is humble that his service back in 1968, where he received a purple heart, is still being acknowledged by community members and organizations.

“It breaks your heart that people have fallen behind and they just can’t keep up, not just because they made bad choices but life has caught up with him and they can’t stay in their homes, even when their renting,” Phillips said.

“We’re being, we are receiving that help right now,” Phillips said. “It’s very humbling and we thank god and we appreciate it with all our hearts.”