Valley Restart Shelter has erected a new wrought iron fence with two rolling gates for both added security and aesthetics. With funding from Riverside County’s Department of Housing and Urban Development, the fence that fronts Menlo Avenue in Hemet has a height of seven feet.
“This project has taken approximately three years to finally see it become a reality,” VRS Executive Director Javier Lopez said. “We have worked diligently with both the City of Hemet staff on drawings and permits, as well as the staff from the Department of Housing and Workforce Solution in the County of Riverside to make sure all permits, and grant regulations were met.”
A call for bids went out to vendors in November to complete the fencing project and Todd’s Fencing, a local business in town, was selected. The owners, Brad and Joanna Todd, met as residents of Valley Restart Shelter in 1999.
Brad said being awarded the fence installation project is just another step in the ongoing relationship he and his wife have with the Valley Restart Shelter and its enduring support. Grateful for the project, Brad hopes VRS will continue changing lives, just as it has done for his family.
“Joanna was fleeing an abusive relationship with four kids in tow, and I was homeless due to drug addiction,” Brad said. “VRS is where we met. Not your typical romance, but for us, it was the beginning of a long God-planned journey. VRS was critical in our success. It allowed us to reflect, grow, and plan a better future, a future together with God’s help.”
The Todds always say that VRS did not give them a handout but rather a step up and that step in the right direction was the cornerstone of their success. The couple married and will be celebrating their 24th wedding anniversary this month.
“We have six successful children and are blessed with nine grandchildren,” Brad said. “Todd’s Fencing has not forgotten what VRS has meant to us, and for that reason we started the Kicks for Kids program, where we buy new shoes for all the children at VRS. What a blessing that is. We are hoping this year will be the greatest ever.”
Lopez said that as the scourge of homelessness continues to grow, Valley Restart is making sure its residents (which include single women, seniors, veterans, and children) receive the necessary services to get back on their feet in a secure campus environment. The new fencing is just one more way of ensuring that.
“We continue to expand on our partnerships throughout the community and Riverside County to assist families to fully integrate back into society and make sure their children continue their education without interruption,” Lopez said.
For information on campus tours or to learn how you can assist with various projects, please visit www.valleyrestartshelter.org or on their social media outlets or call 951-766-7476.
Contributed content.
