VALDOSTA — A Florida-based organization for aiding veterans has expanded its operations to Valdosta.

Ninety Works, headquartered in Pensacola, Fla., opened a Valdosta office at 507 N. Patterson St. in October.

The organization helps homeless veterans find housing and helps pay utility bills and past due bills up to nine months, said Kira Williams, 90 Works’ eligibility specialist. The group also helps with job searches, she said.

“We help to overcome homelessness, poverty and family violence and get them self-sufficient in 90 days,” said Shelly Barry, the group’s outreach specialist.

Ninety Works, which was created in 1983, had been located only in Florida before opening offices in Albany and Valdosta, Williams said. Between the two Georgia offices, 90 Works serves 52 counties in the Peach State.

“We found a need,” she said. “(In February) we helped 35 veterans.” 

The majority of veterans they work with are older and some have disabilities, Williams said.

The biggest need 90 Works has dealt with in the Valdosta area is helping pay rent for veterans at risk of becoming homeless, Williams said.

“We have made relationships with some landlords, who have been responsive to helping,” she said.

Ninety Works also provides help with certain car repairs and with transportation to doctors’ offices, Williams said.

The group’s funding comes primarily from funding and grants, she said.

The Valdosta office is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m.-noon Fridays.

Terry Richards is senior reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times.