Robert’s Story
In late January 2025, Robert Fike, a Vietnam War Navy veteran, arrived at the Wichita Falls Faith Mission with only the belongings on his back. Estranged from his children and with little support from his only living relative in Montana, Richard was uncertain of what his future held. He hoped to find a way into the Texas State Veteran Home, but he wasn’t sure if that was even a possibility.
After a sudden and severe illness left Richard hospitalized with pneumonia, he spent more than a week at United Regional Health Care System. Following his hospitalization, he was transferred to Encompass Rehab Facility for further recovery. This is when Catholic Charities stepped in. We became a beacon of hope for Richard, stepping in to provide the life-changing support and resources he so desperately needed. With compassion and dedication, our Veterans Case Manager, Janis McCullough, took the lead, tirelessly working to ensure that every detail of Richard’s transition was meticulously managed. She navigated the complex web of services, guiding him toward a future filled with stability and dignity. Through her unwavering commitment, Catholic Charities became the catalyst for Richard’s transformation, offering him a path forward when it seemed there was no way out.
Through the collaborative efforts of Catholic Charities and the Northwest Texas Coalition, Richard was connected to the resources he needed.
The network of organizations—including the Faith Mission, United Regional Health Care System, Encompass Rehab Facility, and Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home—worked together to place Richard in the Texas State Veterans Home, where he would receive the care and support he desperately needed.
In addition to the housing, Richard was enrolled in VA Healthcare, discovering benefits he had not known he was eligible for. This newfound support system, combined with the ongoing guidance from Catholic Charities, gave Richard the stability he had been seeking.
On February 11, 2025, Richard began a new chapter of his life at the Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home. The update we received from the Veterans Home highlighted how far he had come: “He had a great night! He and his roommate stayed up late, watching television and talking. He’s very happy to be here, and after getting a haircut, he seems to be doing well.”
Richard’s story is a testament to the power of community collaboration. Thanks to the combined efforts of multiple organizations in Wichita Falls, Richard found a new sense of stability and hope for his future. Catholic Charities, along with our partners, is proud to have played a role in helping Richard get back on his feet and begin a new chapter as he continues his journey to a brighter tomorrow.