Warrior Homes of Collier opens first of two new properties in 2025
The Floridant/10291913

NAPLES, Fla. - Floridant -- Three Naples men who served their country with duty and honor are starting the new year in a new home thanks to a local nonprofit that assists veterans in need with housing, mental health support and access to higher education.

With the expansion, Warrior Homes of Collier now operates five residences for local veterans: Alpha House, a short-term, transitional home for those in recovery from substance use disorders; Bravo and Charlie Houses, which serve seniors on fixed incomes who receive rent subsidies (known as supportive housing); Delta House, a supportive housing complex with 10 apartments for up to 20 veterans, both men and women; and the new Echo House, which is also a supportive unit.

"No veteran in need should be left behind," said Dale Mullin, a Vietnam War veteran and Warrior Homes of Collier president. "With the addition of Echo House, and Foxtrot to soon follow, our goal of ending veteran homelessness in Collier County is one step closer."

The new residents include Alex Kane, who spent six years in the U.S. Navy and has lived in both Alpha and Delta Houses while recovering from addiction and PTSD. He's pursuing a master's degree with plans to become a licensed mental health counselor.

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"My life has completely changed," he said. "Warrior Homes of Collier saved my life."

The new properties became available when the Board of County Commissioners unanimously agreed in November to lease the two rental homes to Warrior Homes of Collier. In a 5-0 vote, commissioners approved an initial one-year lease, with subsequent annual options to renew, of the two vacant, county-owned homes in the Bayshore area.

With three available beds in each home, the addition of the two new homes to its residential inventory will now allow Warrior Homes of Collier to provide stable housing to 39 brave men and women in the community.

Beyond providing a roof over their heads, Warrior Homes of Collier also connects veterans with support services such as mental health counseling and peer support, as well as educational opportunities, including college scholarships. Residents pay rent on a sliding scale, but never more than 30% of their income.

The agreement stipulates that Warrior Homes of Collier pay the county $1,000 per month, per property, to lease the two rental homes, which the county bought more than 20 years ago for $1.12 million as part of a seven-lot parcel near Bayview Park that it planned to convert into beach and boat access.