Struggling Veteran Finds Help from Safelite AutoGlass
COLUMBUS, OH – Safelite AutoGlass, a member of 100,000 Jobs Mission, actively recruits Veterans and currently has 5 percent of employees who are listed as members of the military. Recently, Safelite had an opportunity to help a struggling Veteran get back on his feet.
In September, the Phoenix market was contacted by www.teamrubiconusa.org/, a nonprofit that supports Veterans, seeking help for wounded warrior David Bigbey. Bigbey served onboard USS Abraham Lincoln CVN72 from 2007 – 2011.He was injured and sustained a huge hiatal hernia that has required seven surgeries.
Bigbey, who is on the brink of homelessness, had his car vandalized and windows destroyed. Due to paperwork glitches, his VA compensation was reduced leading to his eviction. The VFW was able to assist with a hotel for a week, but not long enough to cover him until his benefits kick back in. Essentially homeless, he’s trying to make ends meet in a motel over the next several weeks.
Upon receiving this request, District Manager Shawn McClain, a Navy Veteran himself, and his team quickly sprang into action, completing service in just two days. They replaced all the glass and purchased a new tire and air compressor to make the car operational.
Their generosity did not stop there. McClain and Regional Vice President Mike Jalbert listened to Bigbey’s story to find other ways to help. Mike gave him $200 to cover his basic needs in addition to funds for his hotel stay for the next several weeks, and the two purchased food for his dog Cody.
Additionally, McClain recognized a service mindset and caring heart in Bigbey and asked if he needed employment. Bigbey excitedly agreed to interview for several possible positions in the market and loves the idea of someday becoming a Safelite technician.
Members of the military can find job opportunities at www.safelitecareers.com/.
About Safelite AutoGlass
Safelite AutoGlass® is the nation’s largest provider of vehicle glass repair and replacement services with more than 6,500 MobileGlassShops™ and company stores in all 50 states. Last year, nearly 5 million customers chose Safelite for its 24/7 national contact centers, advanced online scheduling, superior repair and replacement systems, and the industry’s only nationwide lifetime guarantee. Founded in 1947, the Columbus, Ohio-based company employs more than 12,000 people across the United States. For more information, visit www.safelite.com/, or follow us on www.facebook.com/safelite and twitter.com/safelite.