Following military service in Bangkok, Thailand, Henry Wallace returned to the states and fell into an unhealthy cycle of addiction. He was living on the streets, struggling with a drug and alcohol problem, and diagnosed with cancer.
He felt there was no hope, but today, he says, “I’m a prime example of your donations at work. You’ve got the living proof here.”
Through Trident United Way, Henry was connected to financial supports and a program funded by Trident United Way at the Lowcountry Food Bank, which taught him cooking techniques and basic skills in the kitchen. He not only learned how to cook but also realized he could tackle things he had never tried before.
With his newfound confidence, Henry is now off the streets, living healthy in a place of his own in West Ashley. He’s now even cancer-free.
Henry now hopes to share his confidence with others by volunteering at the VA as a patient escort and by mentoring younger students in the cooking program. “Giving back is important because someone gave to me and took a chance on me. Now I can give back to the community,” he said.