Disabled veteran to receive custom-built home in Howell Township

Darlene Harris, also known as Dolly, enlisted in the New Jersey Army National Guard in 1988.

Amanda Eustice

Jul 26, 2025, 9:20 PM

Updated 11 hr ago

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A disabled veteran in Ocean County is receiving a brand-new home specially made for her.
Darlene Harris, also known as Dolly, enlisted in the New Jersey Army National Guard in 1988.
She began experiencing difficulties with balance and mobility when she was serving with the 42nd Infantry Division as a logistics officer in 2005.
Harris was later diagnosed with service-connected multiple sclerosis, a condition attributed to exposure to burn pits and damaged vehicles during her service in Iraq.
Now, thanks to nonprofit Homes for Our Troops, Harris is receiving a specially adapted custom home that is being built and donated to her.
"One of the reasons why I joined the Guard is that you could be called up for state or national emergencies and I wanted to contribute... I don't regret my service. I would do it all again," said Harris.
Harris' new home in Howell Township features automated doors, a roll-in shower, wider door frames and an open concept, single-level floor plan.
If all goes well, Harris' home is expected to be completed by the start of the new year.