At 100 years old, World War II Veteran Donald K. has a level of independence that is surprising for someone his age. He lives on his own in Saugus, Calif., zipping around his senior community in an electric wheelchair, attending a weekly Coffee for Vets event at a local restaurant, and FaceTiming regularly with his 11-year-old great niece.

He is happy to chat about everything from his time in WWII – which began at age 18 – to his career in telecomputing, the potential pitfalls of artificial intelligence, and his affinity for skydiving.

“When I was working in telecomputing, I was bored and my physician recommended I take up a hobby on the weekend, so I took up skydiving,” Donald said. “My physician said he meant to take up golf or something, not skydiving!”

Overcoming Financial Struggles 

Donald has lived a full life that included running his own company, travelling abroad, and a 62-year marriage to his high school sweetheart, who passed away in 2010. He never expected that in his 90s he’d be struggling to pay rent and take care of basic necessities.  

World War II Veteran Donald K. reminisces with caregiver Frank Leoni.

“When I met him, he was collecting coupons, the lights were out, and they were raising the rent here every six months,” said Donald’s neighbor and caretaker, Frank Leoni. “He had $25 a week to live on.”  

Frank has been helping Donald manage his health and finances for the past several years to ensure that he can remain as independent as possible. It was through one of the weekly Coffee for Vets events that Donald was connected to Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) and his financial situation rapidly improved. 

“When Donald came to us, he was in rental arrears and his income wasn’t sufficient to pay his rent,” said Julio Ponce, an MHALA Veteran housing benefits specialist who works with Donald. “MHALA was able to help Donald catch up with his rent until he was able to build his income.” 

Connection to Rental Assistance, Disability  

Donald was also able to benefit from the Shallow Subsidy, a program of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that provides rental assistance for two years to eligible Veterans. Through this program, MHALA pays 50% of Donald’s rent and he is responsible for the remaining 50%, allowing him to become more stabilized in his housing.  

Donald during World War II.

Through connections at MHALA’s Veterans Program, Donald was also able to collect months of back pay that he was eligible for through VA disability claims. That put money in his bank account that takes the pressure off of the costs of everyday living.  

“They were guardian angels,” Frank shared, Donald nodding in agreement. 

“I hope to find creative ways to help Donald in the years to come,” said Julio, a Veteran himself. “Not only do I do case management with Donald, I consider him my friend. It’s an honor to work with Donald – someone who is 100 years old and a World War II Veteran.”