Move-in kits help make Veterans’ housing feel like home

Filling the gap

Peer Specialist Rick Cooper noticed that an apartment rarely feels like home when Veterans lack the basic items needed for daily living. While checking in with Veterans housed through Cheyenne VA Health Care System’s Homeless Program, he saw that some could not afford basic household necessities.

“Some stark examples are using a black trash bag and Band Aids as a shower curtain or reusing grocery store paper towels as toilet paper,” says Cooper.

He says finding housing is a huge step, but the empty space still was not functional. That gap pushed Cooper to act.

“I just knew at that point we needed to do better by the Veterans we are moving into housing, and that by providing housing alone, while wonderful, was not enough,” says Cooper.

Building the kits

Cooper started assembling kits in 2025, taking over after a community partner's support ended due to cuts.

The first 10 move-in kits were funded by a $1,000 grant from a community provider.

The program relies on donations to provide supplies. Cooper says about 7 kits are distributed monthly, with the impact reaching beyond the items.

“Knowing that a move-in kit is being supplied on the day of move-in can help decrease stress for a Veteran’s first night in their new home,” says Cooper.

Making the first night easier

Veteran Ronnie Clark spent nearly 6 years homeless before moving into his apartment.

“When I finally walked into my apartment, I was grateful, but it was still an empty space,” says Clark.

He says the move-in kit changed that.

“Having basic household items waiting for me made the apartment feel like a home instead of just 4 walls,” says Clark. “It gave me dignity, comfort and a sense that I mattered.”

Clark credits Cooper and Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing Social Worker, Kraig Patriquin, for helping him rebuild his life.

It takes a community

Cooper says the program depends on community donations to fill the storage container. The most urgent needs are full and queen bedding and bath towels.

“Having the bare necessity items provided is one less thing for a Veteran to worry about during this challenging transition,” says Cooper.

He points out that Veterans cannot use food assistance programs to buy toilet paper, cleaning or personal care items. Donations are the only way some Veterans get these necessities.

Community groups and local organizations have helped, but the need remains. Cooper says every donation turns an empty apartment into a home.

“Because of the housing, the move-in kit and the encouragement they provided, I finally have a place to call home and a foundation to build a better future,” says Clark.

Visit the Cheyenne VA move-in kit page for the current list of needed items and drop-off locations.