Tunnels to Towers Foundation Aims to Help Homeless Veterans

Frank Schiller, the CEO of Tunnels to Towers (T2T), spoke about the foundation’s significant impact on homeless veterans during a recent segment on “Fox & Friends.” He shared that over 17,000 veterans have received assistance through their efforts.

The organization has constructed nearly 2,000 mortgage-free homes designed for military families and first responders, including specialized smart homes for those seriously injured.

In front of first responders gathered in New York, Schiller emphasized that the most valued feature of these smart homes, according to wounded veterans, is, surprisingly, the bathroom. “It’s a bathroom because they can go in there and not have to ask anyone for help,” he explained. “Imagine being someone who, due to injury, feels dependent on others. We want to restore that independence and dignity.”

Care for homeless veterans, Schiller noted, is a “huge undertaking.” Initially, the foundation felt apprehensive about taking on such a mission, particularly regarding the resources it requires—housing, job placement, and more. “If we weren’t willing to do this, we wouldn’t be true to our mission,” Schiller reflected. He believes that following this path is a responsibility they’ve been given. “So, I propose that we do it. We’re going to do it,” he stated.

With a goal to assist 17,500 homeless veterans by year-end, Schiller acknowledged the gravity of the situation. “Many of them are families. Many have children,” he added, which really underscores the need.

Currently, there are around 500 individuals on the waiting list for new homes. Schiller has committed to constructing over 100 smart homes by 2026. In a personal moment, he shared about his brother, a firefighter who lost his life during 9/11, stating, “Next year, we’re going to deliver 343 mortgage-free homes, one almost every day next year, because you deserve it for the sacrifices you’re willing to make.”