Veteran Story: Herbert Laws Jr.

In Conover, North Carolina, Purple Heart Homes recently completed a home repair project for United States Army Veteran Herbert Laws Jr., made possible through a donation from Piedmont Natural Gas and a grant from The Home Depot Foundation. The contribution from Piedmont Natural Gas was presented to Purple Heart Homes during a Hood Hargett Breakfast Club event. At 75 years old, Herbert has spent most of his life serving others. This time, the community came together to serve him.

Born in 1949, Herbert entered the United States Army in 1969 and served during the Korean War era. During his two years of service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for his deployment in Korea. When he was honorably discharged in 1971, he held the rank of Specialist Four.

Over the years, age and structural issues created challenges that made daily life increasingly difficult and unsafe. During the initial assessment, the Purple Heart Homes team noted several unsafe conditions. The floors were sinking, the kitchen cabinets were falling apart, and the deck had deteriorated to the point where it needed major repairs. 

Thanks to the support of community partners, these issues were fully addressed. Habitat for Humanity replaced the subfloor to stabilize the home and also donated brand new appliances to improve Herbert's daily living. Smart Cabinetry provided new cabinets to restore a safe, functional kitchen. Team Depot volunteers stepped in to rebuild the deck and add a new ramp, ensuring Herbert has secure and easy access to his home.

This project represents the heart of Purple Heart Homes mission. Herbert spent many years of his life serving his country, and today, the community was able to return that service through repairs that help him live more safely and comfortably.

Purple Heart Homes is honored to support Herbert and grateful for the partners who made this transformation possible. Every improvement reflects the respect and appreciation he has earned through his service. 

Hearts for the Holidays Call to Action

As we enter the holiday season, we invite you to join our Hearts for the Holidays campaign. Your support helps us complete essential home repairs for Veterans like Herbert, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable place to call home. With your gift we can reach more Veterans, restore dignity, and bring hope to families in need during the time of year when it matters most. Help us make an even greater impact.

Give today and help us reach our Hearts for the Holidays goal of raising funds to complete 25 Veteran home projects in 2026.

[Learn more about Hearts for the Holidays here]