November 9, 2021

Relentless Compassion: EveryStep staff go above and beyond for Creston veteran

On August 25, 2021, EveryStep Creston Home Care Team director Tyra Stull sent an email to all EveryStep employees with a subject line of “Help.” The email explained a client was moving into an apartment, but did not have furniture. “Anything would help him tremendously,” said Tyra in the email.

What happened next was amazing.

“It kind of shocked me,” says Cliff Tipton, who had been referred to the EveryStep Creston Home Care Team by the Veterans Administration. Within a week or two of the email to EveryStep staff, donations started rolling in: a bed, recliner, tables, loveseat, television, fans, window air conditioning unit and more.

“I wasn’t expecting it,” says Cliff, who served in the Navy in Vietnam as a 19-year-old. “I sleep in the recliner because of my breathing condition. The tables are nice because I can use one just for my medication and breathing treatments. It sure comes in handy.”

Cliff found himself nearly homeless when the friends he had been living with moved out, leaving him with only his clothes and oxygen machine. “When you don’t have anything, you just work each week to get whatever you can get. This was really something.”

The outpouring of support from EveryStep staff touched Clifford in more than a material way. “It showed that people still care enough to help a person out. It makes you think. There are still some good people out there.”

Cliff has been in low places, but considers his current situation a high point. “There are people out there who will help you and care, and try to make your life more enjoyable. When you’re by yourself, it’s not the best. In fact, it gets kind of lonely and you get depressed. When people are reaching out and helping you, it makes a big difference.”

EveryStep’s 400 employees and hundreds of volunteers are committed to EveryStep’s mission: to empower individuals, support families and strengthen communities. As demonstrated by the outpouring of help for Cliff, many times this commitment is not just organizational; it is personal.

If you or someone you know is struggling to find the support they need, please contact EveryStep at 515-558-9946. Or, complete the commitment-free, confidential “Find Care” form on EveryStep’s website at everystep.org/find-care. EveryStep staff will follow up with a phone call to answer your questions and provide assistance.