CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Reginald Maynor moved into his new place in December and he knows his way around the kitchen.

"I love to cook, so my roommate is going to miss me when I'm gone," said the 58-year-old Maynor.

Gone, because the Army veteran is temporarily staying at Veteran's Community in Clearwater. It's part of the Homeless Empowerment Program.

"Ensure housing plans, make sure that they never have to experience an episode of homelessness again," said Zak White, Vice President of HEP.

"We utilize an array of clinical services, in addition to our case management services," White said. "We have a lot of wellness efforts, employment efforts a full-service dental."

There's also a clubhouse, community garden, shuttle service to the VA hospital and a dining hall.

The community served more than 500 struggling veterans last year -- veterans from all walks of life with a variety of needs.

"I got hooked on drugs," said Maynor. He was homeless for months before moving into Veteran's Community. He is grateful for the help when he thought there was none.

"Whether it's substance abuse or mental health treatment or just need for financial gain or housing objectives," said White.

Maynor said HEP changed his world.

"I got three kids and my dog waiting on me," said Maynor.

It's a wait the veteran hopes will soon lead him to his own place, while appreciating this one.

"I get emotional sometimes talking about this place," he said. "It's a blessing, it's truly a blessing right here."