Willie’s Story

Full disclosure: we've got a sweet spot for Willie. Who wouldn't? He's like the grandfather you usually see only in movies.

He turned 77 today! He and his wife are raising their 3 grandkids. Willie knows what it's like for these 3 young ones, all in grade school. His own mom died before he was a year old.

Willie stayed in the orphanage until he was 7. Things didn't work out, and he returned when he was 12. When Willie graduated high school, he went straight to the Army.

(Willie brought us these photos and he's mighty proud of them - with good reason!)

After that, his career with US Pipe lasted 31 years. "I didn't want to leave, but I got sick and the doctor told me I couldn't stay."

His days are slower now but they still start early. "Before the sun comes up, I'm on my porch. I don't bother anybody. I just want to know what's going on. Everybody should live freely. Everyone should know their neighbors and feel safe again."

It's our privilege to help Willie and his 2-generation family. "Just a little extra food for the kids. That's all we need."