During his third deployment, U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Johnny Morris sustained severe damage to both of his legs, including the traumatic amputation of his left foot, after he stepped on an …
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During his third deployment, U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Johnny Morris sustained severe damage to both of his legs, including the traumatic amputation of his left foot, after he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED).
On Saturday, April 1, the national nonprofit organization, Homes For Our Troops, will kick off the building of a specially adapted home for Morris and his family. The community kickoff event signifies the start of the build and will introduce Morris to the community. The public is welcome to attend.
The home being built for Morris will feature more than 40 major special adaptations such as widened doorways for wheelchair access, a roll-in shower and kitchen amenities that include pull-down shelving and lowered countertops. The home will also alleviate the mobility and safety issues associated with a traditional home, including navigating a wheelchair through narrow hallways and over thresholds or reaching for cabinets that are too high.
"It is very hard to go from the best shape of your life, being in charge of keeping your brothers safe in a war zone, to needing constant help with everything. It can be overwhelming," Morris said. "These homes help to regain some of the independence that we miss and crave."
The Community Kickoff event will be held at the Elberta Civic Center, 25070 Pine St. in Elberta at 10 a.m.
Home For Our Troops has built 353 homes since the organization's inception in 2004. Homes For Our Troops relies on contributions from donors, supporters, and corporate partners for the building of each veteran's home. Community members may hold fundraisers or make donations. To find out more on how to get involved or make a donation, visit www.hfotusa.org.
