A new executive order issued in May 2025 prioritizes long-term care and housing solutions for veterans. It instructs the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish the National Center for Warrior Independence at the West Los Angeles VA campus. The goal is to support up to 6,000 homeless veterans by 2028 through housing, treatment, and reentry programs.

While much of the order strengthens existing efforts, the expanded scope signals new opportunities for federal vendors. Contractors in housing, healthcare, reentry support, and construction should take note.

What the executive order outlines

The order directs the VA to:

• Designate the West LA campus as the National Center for Warrior Independence

• Submit a detailed action plan within 120 days to expand housing and services for veterans nationwide

• Prioritize funding for housing, addiction recovery, and job training

• Enforce accountability measures using the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act

• Improve access to care by reducing wait times and expanding telehealth and extended hours

• Complete a feasibility study within 30 days for the Manchester VA Medical Center and a full plan within 180 days

The initiative also reinforces use of HUD-VASH housing vouchers, particularly in Los Angeles, where program participation has faced logistical challenges.

Understanding the order's scope and next steps

This executive order is not starting from zero. It builds on long-running federal programs and sets new performance expectations. Rather than introducing entirely new systems, it reinforces what already exists and pushes for better delivery, stronger results, and broader reach.

Here’s what that looks like:

• HUD-VASH will continue to play a key role. The voucher program remains in place to help veterans secure stable housing, particularly in high-need areas.

• The order emphasizes careful use of federal resources. While it references redirection of funds, it does not detail specific program shifts.

• Accountability remains a focus. The order includes a review of past personnel decisions under the 2017 VA Accountability Act, but does not suggest widespread misuse.

• The goal to house 6,000 veterans builds on the current plan for 1,200 units by 2030 at the West LA campus. Achieving this target will likely require expanded budgets, coordination, and vendor participation.

• Healthcare improvements include shorter wait times and better access, but there is no specific mandate for shared VA and military hospital access. Instead, the focus is on expanding current options for more timely care.

Why this creates new potential for contractors

This initiative may lead to increased contracting opportunities for businesses that support veteran housing, care delivery, and community reintegration. Contractors can expect potential demand in:

• Facility construction and redevelopment

• Mental health and substance use recovery programs

• Workforce development and employment reentry services

• Performance-based support partnerships with the VA and HUD

• Strategic opportunities tied to interagency coordination across VA, HHS, HUD, and DoD

The combination of expanded expectations and renewed accountability may encourage agencies to engage vendors who bring clear results and proven capacity. For businesses certified as VOSB or SDVOSB, this is a moment to bring your capabilities forward.

Key federal milestones to track

30 days – Feasibility study for the Manchester VA Medical Center
60 days – VA submits plan to reduce wait times and expand care options
120 days – National Center for Warrior Independence action plan due
180 days – Full proposal for expanded New Hampshire VA services
January 1, 2028 – Target to house 6,000 veterans at the West LA campus

How USFCR can help veteran-owned businesses get involved

USFCR works directly with businesses that want to qualify, compete, and win federal contracts tied to national initiatives like this one. Whether you’re already SDVOSB-certified or just beginning to explore veteran-focused contracting, we provide:

• Complete SAM registration and certification support

• Opportunity tracking through the Advanced Procurement Portal

• Training and strategy for entering federal health, housing, or workforce programs

• Guidance on compliance expectations for VA and interagency coordination

If your business is positioned to support this mission, we’ll help you take the next step with confidence and speed.

What’s next?

Veteran care is a national priority. This executive order turns that priority into a structured plan with clear goals and agency accountability. Contractors who understand the mission and have the right certifications can become essential partners in the work ahead.

If you want to explore where your business fits in, USFCR can help. Download our SDVOSB/VOSB contracting checklist or schedule a one-on-one strategy call today.

FAQ

Do I need to be based in California to participate in these contracts?
No. While the West LA campus is the center of this initiative, opportunities may be available to qualified vendors nationwide.

Is this a new housing voucher program?
No. HUD-VASH is an existing program that will continue to support veteran housing efforts.

Will vendors be expected to meet new compliance standards?
Yes. The order reinforces VA accountability measures and performance expectations. USFCR can help you prepare.

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