WAXAHACHIE, Texas (April 3, 2025) – Veterans are voicing deep concerns over significant cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Office of Community Planning and Development, fearing a surge in homelessness. The VA faces layoffs exceeding 80,000 employees starting in June, while the Office of Community Planning & Development is set to reduce operations by 84%. These agencies provide critical support for Veterans at risk of homelessness.
In response, Lauren Andrade, a Veteran and founder of Serenity Veterans Village (SVV), is expanding efforts to provide low- or no-cost housing for homeless Veterans in Waxahachie and Palmer.
“This is a scary time for Veterans,” Andrade said. “But with the help of local sponsors, we do what we can.”
SVV is a tiny home community offering housing, nutrition, job placement, 3rd party professional counseling, and transportation for homeless Veterans and their families. To prepare for summer, SVV is working to install 12 air conditioning units. Local partner Dial One Johnson Plumbing Cooling & Heating is donating labor for installation and manufacturer Senville is assisting with deep discounts on the units.
“My grandfather, who started our company, was a Veteran,” said Daniel Johnson, general manager of Dial One Johnson. “As part of this community, it’s our responsibility to help our neighbors.”
Donors and sponsors like Dial One and AC manufacturers are critical to SVV’s mission, especially as federal funding reductions threaten essential services for Veterans. You can donate at https://www.serenityveteransvillage.org or schedule ac service at https://dial1plumbing.com/ac-repair.
About Dial One Johnson Plumbing Cooling & Heating
Dial One Johnson Plumbing Cooling & Heating is a local residential plumbing and ac repair company. Dial One has been family owned and operated since 1965. They serve the residents of Ellis and Dallas counties.
For more information, contact:
Michelle Hood
Michelle@dial1plumbing.com