Imperial County

NILAND, Calif. (KYMA, KECY)-Henry Peterson always wanted to give back to veterans since he ended his tour in the gulf war.

For the last 4 years, Peterson along with the local chapter of the Veterans Foreign Wars group are making sure homeless veterans in Slab City are not forgotten.

Peterson, the Chaplain for the Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center Outreach said, "It's important that they talk to somebody who knows where they have been and what they are experiencing. And because they can give each other support and encouragement along the way."

Veteran Clyde Fowlar, has been homeless since he was discharged from the armed forces.

"I ended up homeless in 1997 to 2010. I'm straightening my way out. Building my home in a school bus. I don't know. Just doing my best to do better."

But Fowlar said, it's thanks to his furry companion that's he's able to make the best of the situation.

"He's there when nobody else is. He stands by me. He's like a best friend no matter what."

Local health agencies, as well as public defenders, made sure veterans knew what services are available to them.

Peterson added, "All of the support that we can get from the civilian side of the house, as well as the military side, is extremely important in my view. Because it demonstrates that we cooperate with each other to help the veteran."