National Veterans Homeless Support Dedicates Building in Honor of World War II Veteran Sgt. Edward Jones

Sgt. Jones’ passed away from cancer in 2016

BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – National Veterans Homeless Support, the nonprofit organization serving Central Florida’s homeless veterans, dedicated its Melbourne transitional home located at 2490 Sarno Road, in honor of Sgt. Edward Jones, U.S. Army Air Corps, World War II Veteran, and his wife, Sarah Jones.

The couple was honored in a ceremony last week recognizing their ongoing commitment and support for NVHS’ mission of eliminating and preventing homelessness among veterans and at-risk veterans and their families throughout Central, Florida.

Life-long Brevard County residents, the Joneses were married 42 years, until Sgt. Jones’ passing from cancer on May 2, 2016.

After leaving the service, Sgt. Jones worked 30 years for Florida Power and Light as plant manager in Port St. John and Sarah retired from NASA after 20 years. The couple has a long history of serving others in the community.

“Sarah, has dedicated her life to the service of others, whether it be greyhounds, victims of sex trafficking, or our veterans,” said George Taylor Jr., NVHS President, and Chief Executive Officer.

“I couldn’t think of a better person to honor than Sarah and my Board approved the Sarno home to be dedicated to Sergeant Edward and Sarah Jones.”

The Joneses became involved with NVHS in 2019 and their support over the years has helped NVHS serve 116 veterans, with transitional housing for 29 individuals and financial assistance to 97 veteran families.

NVHS currently has four transitional homes throughout Brevard County. Homeless veterans are able to receive emergency and transitional housing for a period of 90 days to 24 months.

“Transitional housing is meant to bridge the gap between homelessness and permanent housing. During this time veterans are assisted with developing individualized plans to get them back on their feet,” said Taylor.

“We also prevent homelessness, by providing financial assistance for rent, utilities, and deposits allowing veteran families to stay in their homes or get into housing.”

The dedication ceremony was planned as a surprise for Jones and when thanked for her contributions to NVHS, Jones humbly replied, “It’s good to give to an organization where you can trust and know the money is going towards helping the cause.”

The dedication plaque that now hangs at the entrance of the Sarno home barEs an inscription with special meaning to the Joneses.

It reads, “Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you: Jesus Christ and the American soldier. One died for your soul, the other died for your freedom.”

It is a timely reminder for Memorial Day and the expression of gratitude will remind the homeless veterans who pass through the Sarno house doors for years to come, that their service to our nation is appreciated.

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