Sarah Jones and her late husband Sgt. Edward Jones, a World War II veterans of the U.S. Army Air Corps, became involved in supporting the NVHS’ mission of eliminating homelessness among veterans in Central Florida, were honored during a ceremony May 27 at the home on Sarno Road in Melbourne.
“Sarah has dedicated her life to the service of others, whether it be greyhounds, victims of sex trafficking, or our veterans,” said George Taylor Jr., NVHS president and chief executive officer. “I couldn’t think of a better person to honor than Sarah, and my Board approved the Sarno home to be dedicated to Sergeant Edward and Sarah Jones.”
The Joneses became involved with NVHS in 2019 and their support over the years has helped NVHS serve 116 veterans, with transitional housing for 29 individuals and financial assistance to 97 veteran families.
NVHS currently has four transitional homes throughout Brevard County. Homeless veterans are able to receive emergency and transitional housing for a period of 90 days to 24 months.
“Transitional housing is meant to bridge the gap between homelessness and permanent housing. During this time veterans are assisted with developing individualized plans to get them back on their feet,” said Taylor.
“We also prevent homelessness, by providing financial assistance for rent, utilities, and deposits allowing veteran families to stay in their homes or get into housing.”
The dedication ceremony was planned as a surprise for Jones and when thanked for her contributions to NVHS, Jones humbly replied, “It’s good to give to an organization where you can trust and know the money is going towards helping the cause.”
A plaque honoring the Joneses, unveiled at the dedication, is at the entrance to the home.
It reads, “Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you: Jesus Christ and the American soldier. One died for your soul, the other died for your freedom.”
See the full article by Norman Moody in Senior Life Newspaper and another in Space Coast Daily
