(WBEN) A wounded war veteran from Western New York is getting the home of his dreams thanks to a nonprofit organization, about 100 volunteers and several donors.
A Soldier’s Journey Home is a national organization that brings together first responders, veterans, tradespeople, businesses and community volunteers to build specially adapted, mortgage-free accessible homes for disabled veterans.
The 4,000-square-foot home is being built on Falls Road in Westfield for disabled U.S. Army veteran Nathan Kalwicki and his wife, Veronica. Volunteers are expected to complete the project in about two weeks. Work began May 18.
Kalwicki joined David Bellavia's show on Tuesday morning to talk about how much this effort means to him and his family.
Wounded vet from WNY to receive new home Courtesy: A Soldier's Journey Home
Kalwicki was seriously wounded in Afghanistan in 2011. His injuries led to the amputation of his right leg below the knee and caused other medical complications.
The home build was made possible by several generous Western New Yorkers, including Scott Beiler, TRS Heating & Air Conditioning, New Era, Sean Croddy, Brian Whitman, and Bill and Carolyn Panzicki.
During Kalwicki’s lengthy treatment at Walter Reed hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, he formed a band with other disabled veterans called The Resilient as part of MusiCorps, a nonprofit that encourages veterans to use music as part of their recovery.
The community is invited to a celebration unveiling Kalwicki’s new home May 30. Kalwicki’s band will also perform later that night.
