Veterans Credit Klein Hall for a New Life as Closure Looms
The Closure of Klein Hall: A Crisis for Veterans
Klein Hall, a sanctuary for over 1,000 veterans since its opening in 2007, is set to close on September 12. This closure will displace more than two dozen residents, leaving them without a critical support system. The facility has been instrumental in helping veterans rebuild their lives through housing, job training, and recovery services. However, the decision to shut down the program has sparked a political battle and raised concerns about the future of veteran care.
Governor Tony Evers proposed $1.9 million in new funding to support Klein Hall and another veterans home in Green Bay. Unfortunately, this proposal was rejected by the Republican-controlled budget writing committee. As a result, the facilities face financial challenges that threaten their survival. Evers criticized the Legislature for failing to approve the necessary investments, while some Republicans have blamed the governor for not prioritizing these funds earlier in the budget process.
Amid the blame game, several lawmakers have called for a bipartisan approach to prevent the closures. Two bills have been introduced to address the issue, but opinions differ on the best path forward. Meanwhile, most veterans have already moved out of the Chippewa Falls and Green Bay homes, and the closure date is fast approaching.
A Second Chance for Veterans
For many veterans, Klein Hall has been a lifeline. Air Force veteran Blake Haynes faced an impossible choice during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic: pay rent or buy insulin. He chose rent, which led to a cardiac arrest and a coma. After waking up, he was left with no job, no home, and no support. It was only through the help of a nurse that he found his way to Veterans Outreach and Recovery, and eventually to Klein Hall.
During his year and a half at the facility, Haynes received the medical care and support he needed to regain control of his life. Two years later, he is renting a home, leasing a car, and pursuing a nursing degree. Most importantly, he is back with his children. “I have a life,” he said, highlighting the transformative impact of the program.
Similarly, Army veteran Randy Nelson found stability at Klein Hall after battling methamphetamine addiction. The facility provided him with the resources to manage his bipolar disorder and substance use. Through various programs, including anger management and housing retention, Nelson was able to rebuild his life and move into a new home in Eau Claire.
The Programs That Support Veterans
Klein Hall offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to the needs of each resident. Upon arrival, veterans are evaluated for mental health and substance abuse issues, which affect approximately 60% to 70% of residents. The facility provides individualized service plans, with case managers assisting veterans in securing housing, managing finances, and accessing healthcare.
In addition to these core services, the program includes activities such as puzzles, games, and coloring, which can help veterans with anxiety. One veteran, James Heber, used painting to create a mural that symbolizes the journey from military service to homelessness to stability. The artwork serves as a reminder of the progress made by those who have benefited from the program.
Challenges in Finding New Homes
As the closure date approaches, staff at Klein Hall and the Green Bay facility are working tirelessly to find alternative housing and support for veterans. Katrina Currier, site director at the Green Bay facility, emphasized the importance of ensuring that no veterans are left without a place to live. Many have already relocated to other facilities, such as Union Grove, which remains open.
However, the transition has not been easy for all. Marine veteran Derek Aune described the sudden closure as a disruption to his plans, forcing him to move to a facility far from his hometown. Navy veteran Rob Lewandowski also struggled with the change, losing a job opportunity in Chippewa Falls that he had just secured.
The Fight to Save Klein Hall
Despite the impending closure, some advocates remain determined to save the program. Jerry Green, a veteran with real estate experience, argued that repairing the aging facility would be costly, and leasing a new space would be more practical. He pointed to the need to save the program, noting that veterans face significant challenges, including higher rates of suicide.
Sen. Eric Wimberger, R-Oconto, blamed Governor Evers for the planned closures, while WDVA Assistant Deputy Secretary Joey Hoey countered that the department cannot freely spend its funds due to rising costs. The VHRP facilities operate under federal grants, and without additional state funding, they may not be able to continue.
In response to the lack of funding, Sen. Jeff Smith, D-Brunswick, introduced an amendment to fund the programs, but it was voted down by most Republicans. Another bill, introduced by Sen. André Jacque, R-New Franken, includes over $1.9 million to keep the VHRP sites open, along with other veteran-focused initiatives.
A Lasting Impact
Withrow, the site director at Klein Hall, reflected on the impact the program has had on numerous veterans. He shared stories of individuals who arrived with nothing and left with a sense of purpose and stability. One veteran, who lost his leg and struggled with addiction, now has a prosthetic leg and is jogging. Another, who had a poor rental history and anger issues, now owns a home.
Randy Nelson, one of the last remaining residents, expressed gratitude for the support he received at the facility. “It’s a shame that this is shutting down,” he said. “I don’t know where I’d be right now had it not been for here.”
Veterans like Haynes and Nelson credit Klein Hall with giving them a second chance. Now, as the facility prepares to close, the question remains: will there be another opportunity for veterans to rebuild their lives?