Homes for Our Troops, a national non-profit that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes for severely injured veterans, will be gifting an Escondido veteran a new home.
On Saturday, Aug. 24, Randell Leoncio, who was a hospital corpsman in the U.S. Navy, will be receiving a specially adapted home that is wheelchair-accessible for Leoncio’s needs.
While serving with the 3rd Battalion 7th Marines in 2005, Leoncio’s vehicle drove over an improvised explosive device in Ramadi, Iraq. He sustained severe injuries, including a fractured jaw and the loss of his right leg above the knee. Randell was medically retired and is now a prosthetist at Balboa Naval Hospital, where he treats many fellow HFOT Veterans.
In his current residence, Randell often has to hop into the shower because it is too small for his wheelchair, risking further injury. “If I ever injured my left leg, I would struggle a lot to even get into our home,” he says.
Leoncio’s new home features more than 40 major special adaptations such as widened doorways for wheelchair access, a roll-in shower, and kitchen amenities that include pull-down shelving and lowered countertops.
The new home is possible through contributions from donors, supporters, and corporate partners, and the community sponsor for the project is the AREAA Foundation.
According to Homes For Our Troops, Leoncio has seen the difference an adapted home has made in the lives of his patients, enabling them to return to school, pursue careers, and start families.
“I want you all to know that you are making a difference and improving injured veterans’ lives,” said Leoncio.
For those interested in viewing the new house, the public is invited to the ceremony and tour the home at 32520 Mesa Lilac Road, Escondido, San Diego County, CA 92026, Aug. 24 at 10 a.m.
This is one of at least 68 projects underway nationwide. To find out more on how to get involved or make a donation, visit www.hfotusa.org.
