A hometown hero in Malta was treated to a heartwarming gift on Sunday.

Jeff August served our country for more than 12 years.

August now works teaching children with special needs in the Shenendehowa School District. His rent recently increased from $925 to $1,475 a month.

He was officially given a new home, which was remodeled, decorated, and donated to him by the Malta Veteran Appreciation Program. Many people, including Sen. Jim Tedisco, were there to celebrate.

Area realtor Renee Farley seeks volunteers for the program, which she often takes a little bit of prodding, she said.

“I know we are all busy, and people will say ‘I can give you 10% or 20% discount on doing a roof or something for your veteran.’ Well, are they giving us 20% when they’re crawling across the dirt and the desert,” she said. “They give us 100% and now it’s our turn.”

August’s new residence is the fourth home donated to servicemembers and veterans in Malta for their commitment to the country. The Malta Veteran Appreication Program is already scouting new properties to be fixed up and then donated to other Hometown Heroes.

Hear August’s reaction to the new home, by watching the video of Dan Levy’s story.