Longview, Texas – In a concerted effort to address veteran homelessness across East Texas, two local nonprofits are broadening their services to provide basic necessities, case management and housing referrals. Tina Brown, a caseworker with Gateway to Hope, explained that the organization now offers showers, laundry facilities and individualized goal‑setting sessions for anyone experiencing homelessness, with a special focus on veterans.
Comprehensive assistance for veterans
“We sit down and we talk with the people who come in, find out where they’re at,” Brown said. “We get basic information, and one of those is if they’re a veteran.” After confirming veteran status, Gateway to Hope directs individuals to Camp V, a veteran‑focused housing program that has recently placed several families in homes throughout Tyler and even in Dallas.
Beyond housing, the organization refers clients to the Andrew Center for psychological counseling, recognizing that mental‑health support is essential for long‑term stability. Brown emphasized the nonprofit’s philosophy: “We’re here to help, not to judge.”
Additional shelter options
Highway 80 Rescue Mission, another Longview‑based charity, provides emergency shelter for men and women and runs a residential recovery program in Tyler for those seeking to overcome substance‑use challenges. All services are offered at no cost, relying heavily on donations and volunteer support from the East Texas community.
When asked whether veteran homelessness was on the rise, Brown noted a slight decline, attributing the improvement to the combined efforts of local agencies. “I believe it’s decreased a little because the services are working,” she said, even as a recent broadcast segment reported an increase in the number of veterans seeking assistance at Camp V.
Community involvement and future goals
Both organizations credit the generosity of local churches, businesses and individual donors for their ability to expand programming. They are currently seeking additional volunteers to assist with laundry services, meal preparation and mentorship for veterans re‑entering the civilian workforce.
Local leaders have praised the collaborative approach, noting that addressing veteran homelessness aligns with the region’s strong family values and commitment to individual liberty. By providing a safety net that respects the dignity of those who have served, these nonprofits aim to create a pathway toward self‑sufficiency for East Texas veterans.
How to help
Residents interested in supporting the effort can donate clothing, toiletries or monetary contributions directly to Gateway to Hope or Highway 80 Rescue Mission. Information on volunteer opportunities and donation drop‑off locations is available on each organization’s website.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
