Tommy Pasquale of Randolph, New Jersey, is on a mission to walk cross country to Venice Beach, California, to raise money for the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.
The 24-year-old left Brielle Road Beach in Manasquan, New Jersey, on Sept. 19, 2022, and hopes to reach the Pacific Oean by April 2023.
Pasquale said that the 38,000 veterans who go to sleep homeless across the United States is an "unacceptable" number — especially in a country "as great as the United States."
"I think it’s not too much to ask that when they get home, they have a good place to live and rest their hat at the end of the day," he said.
Pasquale said that it's been a dream of his to "do something crazy" such as walk across the country.
"I decided if there’s ever a point where I’m going to do it, the time is now when I’m young, I’m strong and I’m healthy," he said.
"So, I went for it and I’m glad I did, although it’s definitely a little crazy."
Pasquale quit his job — he worked in software sales in New York City. He also sold his car, using the money he’d saved to take the trip.
"It should last me until I get there," he said. "But currently, I have no income."
He has several veterans and active-duty military in his own circle. He says the purpose of his walk is a natural fit.
Fox News ran his story and here it is: New Jersey man raises money for homeless veterans with cross-country walk | Fox News Video