New Initiative for Homeless Veterans in Los Angeles
On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a dedicated center for homeless veterans at its West Los Angeles campus. Dubbed the National Warrior Independence Center, the initiative aims to house up to 6,000 veterans and redirect unused federal funds previously meant for services to illegal immigrants towards this housing project.
Action Plan and Timeline
The executive order mandates VA Secretary Doug Collins to formulate a comprehensive action plan for the center by January 1, 2028. Within 60 days, Collins is required to report on methods to enhance service delivery and provide more accessible options for veterans, such as:
- Extended office hours
- Weekend appointments
- Increased virtual healthcare options
Addressing Veteran Homelessness
The order highlights the growing issue of homelessness among veterans in the United States, asserting that “Too many veterans are homeless in America.” According to recent reports, Los Angeles has approximately 3,000 homeless veterans, representing around 10% of all homeless veterans nationwide.
Collaboration with Housing Programs
As part of the plan, Secretary Collins will work with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to explore ways to utilize vouchers from the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program (HUD-VASH). This program has faced challenges, including processing delays and a lack of landlord participation. Notably, as of 2024, 8,453 HUD-VASH vouchers were available in greater Los Angeles, with only 62% currently in use.
Context and Challenges
This initiative arrives at a critical juncture, as the Trump administration has faced criticism over proposed cuts to VA staffing, which advocates argue have harmful impacts on veteran care. “There are real-life dangerous impacts for veterans,” stated Rep. Chris Deluzio following an investigation highlighting systemic issues within the VA.
Additionally, the order is part of ongoing litigation concerning the VA’s management of its West Los Angeles campus. A decision from the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals regarding a federal ruling on the VA’s obligations to provide veteran housing is anticipated soon.
Reactions from Veteran Advocates
Reactions to the executive order have been mixed among the veteran community. Rob Reynolds, an Iraq war veteran, expressed optimism, stating, “Just to know that there was an executive order signed for more housing on VA land, that’s a huge win for us.” Meanwhile, Anthony Allman of Vets Advocacy acknowledged the importance of the order but urged cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for holistic solutions that encompass community and workforce development.
Historical Significance
The executive order also reflects on the historical significance of the West Los Angeles campus, which has degraded over the decades. What was once a vibrant space for veterans, complete with a chapel and theater, has seen much of its housing dismantled or leased to private entities at low rates, furthering the neglect of veteran care.
Future Development Plans
The Veterans Collective, entrusted with constructing 1,200 supportive housing units on the campus, has welcomed the executive order. The organization is aiming to complete the housing units before the end of President Trump’s term, indicating a collaborative effort to provide immediate relief for veterans in need.
Comprehensive Healthcare Improvements
In addition to housing, the order calls for expanding the Manchester VA Medical Center in New Hampshire, ensuring it becomes a full-service facility—removing its designation as the only state in the contiguous United States without one.
The developments from President Trump’s executive order underline an essential step towards addressing the pervasive issue of veteran homelessness, while also seeking to restore dignity and comprehensive support to those who have served the nation.
