Homeless veterans find purpose in selling art

Given a chance: homeless veterans find purpose in selling art
The Daily Courier
Max Efrein
December 29, 2015

Navy Veteran Richard Findlay talks about his woodwork with Bessamac Cunningham Saturday afternoon, Nov. 28, during the Holiday Sale Arts and Crafts off Iron Springs Road in Prescott.

It wasn't big, but the Holiday Sale Arts and Craft show off of Iron Springs Road on Saturday, Nov. 28, went beyond artists simply making a buck. It helped reinforce constructive behavior among a population of creative minds who don't often have the means to show off their talents at such organized events.

Among the nearly 20 vendors were veterans, many of whom are homeless and were provided space at the craft show for free.

Along with her partner, homeless Air Force veteran Rachele Kelley was selling jewelry she personally crafted, something she has been doing for about 25 years.

She recently took shelter in the Prescott Veterans Affairs Domiciliary to help overcome some mental challenges and figure out a way to support herself going forward.

The Domiciliary is a residential treatment program for up to 120 veterans who have mental health and vocational goals that can be addressed during a short-term stay, up to 120 days, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
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