Veterans Social Center In Midwest City: A Second Home For Veterans

It’s called home away from home, and for the veterans that come here, it really is a second home.

“I mean it’s like a family atmosphere, I love being around it,” said Veteran Mike Vanlear. Kimberly Richardson opened the Veterans Social Center at 9213 N.E. 10th Street in Midwest City in 2017.

“I wanted to show people that there are people out there that love you,” said Richardson.  

This space gives veterans a place to belong. “Most veterans are sitting at home, watching TV, nothing to do, just waiting for the next VA appointment,” said Anna Grisby, the marketing manager for the social center.

The veterans absolutely love coming to the center every day. “Soon as they walk through the doors, they are grinning, they’re smiling they’re joking, they’re messing with all the employees,” said Grisby.

The center is open Monday through Friday from eight to four and is free for veterans with approval from their doctor. “They need to have that one consultation with their doctor and as long as the doctor approves it, the paperwork comes to us and they’re in,” said Grisby.

There are lots of activities, like bible study, arts and crafts. “This is Christmas decorations, that is some other things that we are making the ceramics,” said veteran Hugh Robinson.

There’s even video bowling, cards, an exercise area, pool tables, and of course a not-so-friendly game of dominoes. “You are not going to win every game, because there are some gangster domino players in here,” said veteran Ray M. Patton.

Aside from the fun and comradery, they also help the client with veteran benefits. “We provide them with all the information that they need and if we can’t get that information, we are going to call somebody,” said Grisby.

“I really was at a point where I was suicidal, but then he brought me to the place and introduced me to Kim and them, and I came here, and they just give me so much love,” said veteran Ahmmad El Khatib. “You do have a reason to live, there are people out here that love you,” said Richardson.

“We just love each other, this is home from home man,” said veteran Gary Andrews On Friday for Veterans Day, all veterans and their families are invited out for a free lunch, that fun starts at noon. For more information about Home Away From Home Veterans Social Center visit their website www.homeforvets.org