Eric Shaunce
Eric Shaunce used to ride what was called "Hotel 22," one of the VTA bus lines up El Camino Real that unhoused people would ride at night to stay warm. However, he turned his life around with the help of the VTA bus operator program, and various drug rehabilitation programs.
In his own words, Shaunce remarked how "It was emotional. I used to ride the 22 to stay dry. I had bad memories. If you're in your addiction or homeless, there are places to help you change. You just have to have the desire. If I can do it, anyone can do it."
After years of working odd jobs, after nine weeks of intense training, Eric graduated the VTA training at 53 years old.
Eric is one of 27 new operators, helping VTA fill a critical shortage of operators over the past two years. With a national labor shortage taking shape since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, VTA is not alone in looking for more people to hire.
Homeless Veteran Becomes Homeowner
Homeless Veteran Becomes Homeowner Visit the VALOR Center Afghanistan Veteran to Business Major. Justin Reynolds lived in his van, now he is a homeowner after getting help from Mission's VALOR Center. Read his story.