Tammy's story
A veteran's widow keeping watch over Lake County
I'm Tammy Couey, and I live in Leesburg, Florida.
My husband James served in the Army as a helicopter mechanic. He passed away in December 2022. Losing him changed everything, and it showed me how much a community matters.
I've taken in 13 cats who had nowhere else to go. They're my family, and they're a big part of why I care about animals who get left behind.
When I went looking for help in Lake County, I found lists full of numbers that didn't work and programs that had closed. I knew I couldn't be the only one. That's why I started Kept Watch: to gather what works, check it, and get it into the hands of the people who need it.
"He kept watch for his country. I keep watch for my neighbors."
What I care about
Four things, one community
Veterans' widows and families
Nobody tells you what you're entitled to after a loss. I'm learning, and I share what I learn: who to call, what to ask for, what to bring.
Food
Nobody in Lake County should go hungry because they can't find a pantry or get to one.
Animals
Pet food pantries and low-cost vet care, so nobody has to choose between eating and feeding their animals.
Getting help to people
The right number, checked, on a card in your pocket.