A new permanent assistance center has opened in Orangevale, California, expanding the mission of the nonprofit organization, Jake’s Journey Home. This center aims to enhance support for at-risk veterans and community members in Sacramento County by providing a consistent location for access to vital resources and services.
Located in a shopping plaza at the intersection of Main Avenue and Madison Avenue, the center complements the organization’s existing mobile outreach unit. Jeanne Shuman, the founder of Jake’s Journey Home, expressed her emotions about the new facility, stating, “It brought tears to my eyes this morning as I was making my way over to the center knowing that this is just the next step and being able to help more and more people.”
Jeanne’s motivation to establish the organization stemmed from a personal tragedy. It was founded in honor of her son, Jake Shuman, a U.S. Navy SeaBee veteran and small business owner, who passed away in 2019. In the years prior to his death, Jeanne and Jake had been actively assisting veterans in accessing services through the Veterans Affairs office. “I had to figure out what I was gonna do with my life,” she recalled. “I started Jake’s Journey Home in his honor so that I could say his name every day, but continue to help people to create success and sustainability.”
Since its inception six years ago, Jake’s Journey Home has operated as an all-volunteer mobile services unit. The opening of the permanent center marks a significant expansion of its operations. The new facility will allow volunteers to provide more in-depth problem-solving and improve communication with the legal system in a calm and supportive environment.
“It’s kind of a one stop, ‘do all,’ really,” Shuman explained. The permanent location is designed to strengthen the organization’s impact, making it easier for veterans and community members to access the help they need.
The mobile outreach unit remains a crucial part of Jake’s Journey Home’s mission. The new storefront is intended to enhance the efficiency of their services, allowing the team to reach even more individuals in need.
In a community where resources can often be scattered and difficult to access, Jake’s Journey Home is positioning itself as a vital lifeline for at-risk veterans and their families. With the opening of this center, the organization is ready to expand its reach and deepen its commitment to serving those who have served.
