On a cool morning in Los Angeles, Irving Webb, an Iraq war veteran, was packing his belongings as sanitation workers cleared the sidewalk where he had been living. This was not the first time he faced such a situation. "I’ve been here for five years," he said, expressing his frustration over being displaced repeatedly. Webb’s story highlights a troubling reality: Los Angeles has the highest number of homeless veterans in the country.
The site of Webb’s struggle is just outside the sprawling 388-acre Veterans Affairs campus in West Los Angeles, which was originally donated in 1888 to serve as a home for soldiers. Despite its size, the campus has seen questionable uses over the years, including leases for private athletic fields. Lawsuits have prompted the VA to begin building housing, but progress has been slow. Some temporary shelters have been established, but they often reach capacity, leaving veterans like Webb without options.
Rob Reynolds, another Iraq veteran and advocate for homeless veterans, pointed out the urgent need for more housing options. He noted that many veterans struggle with mental health issues or substance abuse, making access to nearby care facilities crucial. "Housing on this property is very important for some people that have severe disabilities," he said.
Recently, an executive order from the White House has raised hopes for change. The order aims to establish the West LA VA campus as the National Center for Warrior Independence, with a plan to house 6,000 veterans by 2028. However, there are concerns about the lack of consultation with local VA officials. Some worry that the ambitious goal may lead to overcrowding and inadequate support for veterans.
Congressman Brad Sherman expressed skepticism about the plan’s feasibility, especially since it suggests funding could come from sources intended for other services. He emphasized the importance of a clear and actionable plan to support veterans effectively.
While advocates welcome any effort to improve veterans’ housing, they hope for a comprehensive approach that includes long-term solutions and community integration. As they await details, the focus remains on ensuring that veterans like Irving Webb are not left to fend for themselves on the streets.