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More than a dozen homeless veterans living at Spring Street Veterans Renaissance in Springfield, Ill., are working with some new tools aimed at helping them successfully integrate back into society.

The veterans-only transitional home was recently awarded a $2,584 Veteran Projects Fund grant from the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation. The funding helped provide laptops, desktop computers, lawn equipment, patio furniture, and gliders.

“I’m proud of the fact that our [ALA Foundation] organization has these grants,” said Karen Boughan, executive director of the ALA Department of Illinois.

Inside, the computers will allow veterans living in the 15-bed facility to apply for jobs and update their resumes. Residents who have returned to school can use the laptops for research and homework.

Outside, the lawn mower allows the veterans to keep their new residence in tip-top shape while building a sense of pride and accomplishment along the way. The patio furniture provides a place to eat and socialize while getting fresh air in a nonthreatening environment.

Unbelievable, unexpected, and notes of gratitude were some of the praises by veterans.

“It was a wonderful thing to be a part of,” Boughan said. “These veterans are working hard to get back on track, and it was an honor to be able to do this. A big thank-you to the ALA Foundation!”