BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — Joe Desimone has been homeless for almost a year. Serving his time at the BLNC where they helped him find permanent living. On August 13, 2024, Joe is officially a homeowner once again.
- The BLNC currently has more than 300 beds in their facility.
- Joe has been a "guest" at Mercy House for a little under a year.
He plans to give back and help non-profit organizations with homelessness.
BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:
It's been nearly four years since the Brundage Lane Navigation Center opened its doors, giving the homeless a path to permanent housing. I'm Eric J Dockery, your Bakersfield neighborhood reporter. Joe Desimone is one of the success stories to come out of this facility. After spending 11 months homeless, he never gave up on his dream of finding a home.
That bell lets everyone know, that a guest of the Brundage Lane Navigation Center is moving on and it's a celebration.
Theo Dues said "This is part of the homeless crisis that the public rarely sees. This is a powerful story but what makes it powerful is not that it's unique but that it's so common. We've housed almost 400 people since we opened.
Joe Desimone said "I am ever so grateful for the passion that the Mercy House staff puts into this effort. From the very moment, I walked through the door, and was greeted so warmly to today being wished good luck and cheer to the future it's just been so unbelievable."
Joe tells me that he always felt like family, having a roof over his head, and food to eat. He never had any negative thoughts towards the center.
"They know the homeless, and many of them have had experiences with homelessness but they are not afraid of homelessness they care for them and more than care for them they love them." said Joe.
Staff members told me that they were going to miss Joe and everything he brought to Brundage. "Joe was a man of great character, he walked through the shelter with dignity he shined a light, and were going to miss that." said Theo.
After the ceremony, Joe headed to his new apartment saying goodbye to the BLNC. He took the shuttle for the last time as they dropped him off and he started his new life.
You were number 377 congratulations on that! What are some things you plan to do now that you have reclaimed your life?
Joe says "I've already begun actively volunteering with groups in the community. I come from a long line of working with non-profits and I'm choosing to work more with organizations that help the homeless and serve the homeless population."
Joe tells me he is forever grateful to Brundage for all they have done for him, and he wants to make sure he is an example of their fine work.
"I can never say thank you enough loud enough or bold enough to meet what these people have done for me." said Joe Desimone.
The BLNC currently has more than 300 beds and is willing to help those who want to be helped. For 23 ABC im Eric J. Dockery your Bakersfield neighborhood reporter.
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