Monroe Review

State Representatives Jamie Thompson of Brownstown and Rylee Linting of Grosse Ile Township recently welcomed representatives from Downriver for Veterans to Lansing. The organization’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Ann Rudisill, and Board Member Monika “Mooney” Anthony attended a House Families and Veterans Committee hearing on August 26.

Rudisill, a United States Air Force Veteran, addressed the committee about the need for more comprehensive veteran benefit screening and registration at discharge. She emphasized that such measures would help ensure veterans are informed about available resources, including health care and housing options. According to Rudisill, there are about 2,500 homeless veterans in Michigan.

Downriver for Veterans is a nonprofit group providing emergency assistance to veterans in Downriver communities. Their support includes help with rent, meals, utilities, car repairs, and other essential expenses. The organization is also considering the development of pre-fabricated homes as a solution for homeless veterans in the area. Rudisill described working with veterans who face challenges such as posttraumatic stress disorder, divorce, or financial hardship that can lead to homelessness.

Thompson serves on the House Families and Veterans Committee. Both she and Linting represent parts of Wayne County within Michigan’s 27th and 28th House districts.