Homeless ex-soldier moves into new rent-free flat
A kind-hearted landlord has given a flat rent-free to a homeless former soldier - after one Facebook post generated a whirlwind of support.
Generous Chris Foxall turned to social media to offer one of his flats in the Black Country to any homeless soldier to help them get their lives back on track.
Just one week later a former soldier has moved into the property in Netherton Road, Dudley.
Ex Grenadier Guardsman Daniel, who asked for his surname not to be published, says he is 'overwhelmed' by the kind gesture.
He was homeless, but says he now hopes his days of sleeping rough are behind him.
Mr Foxall, from Stourbridge, appealed on Facebook to find an ex serviceman or woman who he would give one of his properties to, rent and deposit free for three months.
The post went on to generate more than 300,000 shares, and one million likes, with people from around the world getting in touch.
Father-of-two Mr Foxall, 42, said: "It all went a bit mental. I couldn't believe how many people came forward with offers of support, and several other landlords are now looking into doing a similar thing, it's been wild and quite emotional too.
"I was touched by the amount of ex servicemen on the streets after giving such a sacrifice to serve their country, so I wanted to help out.
"Daniel is such a nice guy, and it was extremely humbling to meet him and show him the flat.
"I found him via charity Soldiers off the Streets who have been a great support.
"It is about saying here is three months rent-free so you can get yourself back on your feet and into work."
Erdington furniture shop Cookes came forward to furnish the flat, with locals offering kitchen appliances and free decorating.
Daniel, 37, who was sleeping rough in parks and allotments for three months after leaving the army, was also given a car by a local company to help him on the road to a fresh start.
He said: "I am still in shock, I'm overwhelmed. I've always had bad luck in my life so I'm absolutely over the moon.
"Chris is the salt of the earth. I didn't think there was that type of person in the world. All I can say is that he has saved my life."
Daniel said he hopes his days of sleeping on the streets and not knowing where his next meal would come from are now behind him.
"I was here, there and everywhere," he said. "When I got the chance I would stay of a mate's sofa but then I would be back on the streets again.
"If It hadn't been for people like Chris and Soldiers off the Streets I don't know what I would be doing today. I'd be still searching for food and looking for a shower."
