Greetings from your WDVA Director:
David Puente

On March 29th, we had the honor of welcoming Governor Bob Ferguson to the Spokane Veterans Home for his very first visit. This was a momentous occasion, as the governor gained a firsthand understanding of the exceptional care our team provides to resident veterans. He also learned more about the Spokane Veterans Home Replacement Project - a critical initiative as the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs works to secure funding for a new, state-of-the-art facility.

During his visit, Governor Ferguson expressed deep admiration for the dedication and compassion of our staff. Residents were thrilled to meet him, engaging in lively conversations and sharing their thoughts on government priorities. One resident, John, spoke passionately about the incredible service provided by our team, highlighting the personalized care that makes our home truly special.

The governor's tour, led by Administrator Mark Michaels, offered him a closer look at the unique bond shared between staff and residents, a bond built on trust, respect, and unwavering commitment. This visit was a powerful reminder of the impact we have on the lives of our veterans, and it reinforced the importance of continuing to invest in their care and well-being.

To read more about the governor's visit to Spokane Veterans Home click: Governor Ferguson Visits Spokane Veterans Home Highlighting Future Replacement Plans | WDVA

April 2025 Progress Report: Proposed Tri-Cities State Veterans Cemetery for Local Veteran Community

In April 2025, the Tri-Cities Veterans Cemetery project took a promising step forward as $500,000 for its pre-design phase was included in the governor’s proposed Capital Budget, as well as Senate and House versions. This funding highlights the federal VA’s identified need for a medium-sized cemetery in southeastern and central Washington. With all versions of the budget currently aligning, there’s optimism for its inclusion in the final Capital Budget.

The pre-design phase is crucial for studying potential parcels, evaluating water rights, land costs, and site improvements. Recent discussions with West Richland and Richland city leaders focused on two key parcels, each offering unique attributes and challenges, such as water availability and development requirements.

Site evaluation is underway, with criteria like population proximity, accessibility, utility availability, and soil quality guiding decisions. The legislative session concludes on April 27, and the team aims to share updates on funding finalization and initiate requests for proposals for pre-design work.

Read more: April 2025 Update to Tri-Cities Veterans Community on the Proposed Tri-Cities State Veterans Cemetery | WDVA

Questions or inquiries can be sent to CemeteryTri-Cities@dva.wa.gov

LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship Workshops

Your WDVA LGBTQ+ Veterans Program is offering no-cost workshops as part of the LGBTQ+ Veteran Ally Program.

These workshops are interactive sessions that prepare Veteran service providers with information to better serve LGBTQ+ Veterans and their families. 

Space is limited. Register today! 

To learn more and register visit click the link below. 

LGBTQ+ Veteran Allyship Workshops

For more information on how the state definition of "Veteran" has expanded state benefits to include any Veteran already eligible for federal Department of Veterans Affairs monetary benefits, please visit our Definition of a Veteran | WDVA webpage.

Liberty Lake Launches 988 Lifeline Emblem Initiative for Crisis Support

The City of Liberty Lake is taking a proactive step in promoting mental health awareness and crisis support with their purchase of 75 license plate emblems featuring the 988 Lifeline - a vital resource for suicide prevention and crisis assistance.

Mayor Cris Kaminskas proudly placed the first emblem on a Liberty Lake Police Department vehicle, marking the beginning of this impactful initiative

Read more: State veterans organization honors city for support of 988 Lifeline resource

WDVA Transitional Housing Program (THP) Achieves Remarkable Success in Veterans Housing and Support Programs

 The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) Transitional Housing Program (THP) continues to surpass expectations, achieving outstanding results in its mission to help Veterans transition to permanent housing. Since Oct. 2024 (Federal Fiscal Year Quarter 1&2), THP has already housed 63 Veterans, and across all programs, negative exits remain impressively low at just 6.7%.  

Read the complete article: WDVA Transitional Housing Program (THP) Achieves Remarkable Success in Veterans Housing and Support Programs | WDVA 

Check out local news coverage:

https://www.fox28spokane.com/washington-program-surpasses-goals-for-housing-veterans/

https://www.khq.com/news/washington-program-surpasses-goals-for-housing-veterans/article_b73ae888-ad93-4539-890b-555c3a6fb5aa.html

Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard

Washington Soldiers Home in Orting

Spokane Veterans Home

https://www.dva.wa.gov/counselingCounseling Services and Wellness Programs

April is Counseling Awareness Month.
Counseling plays a vital role in supporting veterans and their families, offering tools to navigate challenges and improve mental health. The WDVA provides confidential counseling services tailored to Veterans' unique needs, including PTSD, brain injury & recovery, substance use, and more.

Learn how these services can make a difference at Counseling Services and Wellness Programs | WDVA Let's spread awareness and encourage those in need to seek support!