Navy veteran receives new apartment on Veterans Day after struggling with homelessness

WINTER PARK, Fla. — A local veteran who was struggling with homeless was honored in a special way on Thursday.

Marcus Sims just got the keys to his new apartment.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

Though bare, it’s the perfect gift for the Navy veteran on Veterans Day.

This will also be his first night sleeping with a roof over his head in some time.

READ: Do you know a vet? Here’s a list of local Veterans Day events, deals & discounts

“It’s just a combination of things that, you know, there are hard times,” Sims said.

Sims has been homeless for months. During the pandemic, he said he lost everything that meant the most to him: his marriage, house, job and dignity.

He reached out to Veterans Affairs for assistance, and now he’s a renter.

READ: Universal Orlando announces offers for active, retired military members

“My goal today is to make this apartment my home,” he said.

Help came in a big way.

Mustard Seed of Central Florida heard about Sims situation and came bearing gifts: furniture, a bed and even a crockpot.

READ: ‘More than just a competition’: SWAT teams from around the world compete in Orange County

“You know, you’d have to worry about where your next meal is going to be or where you’re going to wake up,” Sims said. “You know, you wake up in your own home, so it’s a great thing. It’s a great feeling.”

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.