Wes Wilburn welcomes listeners to a deeply meaningful episode featuring a crucial conversation with Matt Milazzo, senior manager at the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Born and raised in Staten Island with a family dedicated to public service, Matt shares how the foundation's mission to eradicate veteran homelessness resonates with his personal values and professional aspirations.

The heart of this episode centers on the foundation's innovative approach to combating veteran homelessness through strategically located Veterans Villages—renovated hotels transformed into supportive housing communities. Matt explains their two-pronged strategy: providing immediate housing through these villages while simultaneously addressing the root causes of homelessness through personalized support services. Since late 2022, they've already helped over 10,000 veterans transition off the streets. These villages aren't just shelters; they're comprehensive rehabilitation centers strategically positioned near VA facilities to ensure ongoing medical support.

A critical need emerges during their discussion—transportation. The foundation urgently requires wheelchair-accessible passenger vans to transport veterans to medical appointments and other essential services. This presents a unique opportunity for the towing and recovery industry to make a tangible difference. Wes passionately calls on listeners to donate suitable vans or salvageable accessibility equipment, pledging his personal assistance in coordinating transportation to wherever the foundation needs these vehicles nationwide. Beyond vehicle donations, Matt details additional ways to support their mission, including their symbolic $11 monthly donation program and various fundraising opportunities.

The episode concludes with Towing News Now, highlighting recent industry developments including Chicago's efforts to combat predatory towing practices, controversial vehicle removal operations in California, and sobering reminders of the dangers tow operators face. These stories underscore why initiatives like the Tunnel to Towers partnership matter—they demonstrate how an industry often misunderstood by the public can be a powerful force for good in communities across America.

Ready to make a difference? Contact the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at 718-987-1931 or visit t2t.org to learn how you can support their mission to ensure no veteran remains homeless.