Veteran's Story: Joe Ruffin

At Purple Heart Homes, we are dedicated to ensuring that our Veterans can age safely and comfortably in their own homes. Through our Veterans Aging in Place (VAIP) Program and generous funding from a North Carolina Government Grant and Catawba Attachments, we were honored to serve U.S. Army Veteran Joe Ruffin of Wilson, North Carolina.

Joe's home was in need of critical repairs. Her bathroom required a remodel to improve accessibility, and her sunroom needed new windows and framing after years of leaking and rotting wood. By addressing these issues, we were able to provide a safer, healthier environment for Joe.

About the Veteran

Born in 1960, Joe Ruffin served in the U.S. Army from January 3, 1984 to January 19, 1993 during the Gulf War era. She was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant (E5). Joe's service to our nation earned her several decorations, including the Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, Southeast Asia Service Medal, Marksman Marksmanship Badge Rifle M-16, and the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal.

Today, Joe is an active member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Patriotism groups, continuing her commitment to service and community.

Challenges and Needs

Due to service-connected injuries, Joe faces daily mobility challenges. She struggles with standing for more than 20 minutes, relies on a cane at times, and has difficulty safely entering and exiting a traditional bathtub. The leaking and rotting conditions in her sunroom also created safety and structural concerns.

By completing a full bathroom remodel and repairing the sunroom with new framing and windows, we were able to help Joe regain comfort and safety in her home.

Call to Action

At Purple Heart Homes, we believe every Veteran deserves a safe and accessible home. If you'd like to support Veterans like Joe, consider making a donation, volunteering, or becoming a community partner. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of those who served.

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