By Robert J. Hansen | OBSERVER Staff Writer
Collie Washington moved to Sacramento from Baton Rouge at 17, and two years later, was drafted into the Vietnam War.
Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen, the daughter of Vietnamese refugees who fled the war by boat, expressed deep gratitude to Washington, acknowledging that she wouldn’t be where she is today without the courage of veterans like him.
On Nov. 2, just nine days before Veterans Day, the Collie Washington Veterans’ Home celebrated its grand opening in South Sacramento. The event honored Washington’s service and his commitment to supporting fellow veterans who have been left homeless.
Washington’s daughter, Reshema Washington, donated the house and worked with friends and family to furnish and renovate a five-bedroom home that can accommodate up to seven veterans. Her goal is to open more veterans homes across California.
“My greatest desire is to help veterans live safely in affordable and comfortable living spaces that are beautiful and feel like home,” Reshema Washington said.
Her passion for assisting veterans intensified this year when she discovered how few resources and housing options were available for homeless veterans and the long wait times for the completion of housing projects.
“They didn’t die at war, but they’re going to die here on the streets of America,” Reshema said, highlighting the urgent need for action. Collie Washington, 81, was exposed to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam.
Nguyen was moved to tears as she spoke to Collie Washington, expressing heartfelt appreciation for his service.
“Had it not been for you risking your life and putting everything on the line, my family wouldn’t be here today,” Nguyen said, addressing a room filled with friends and supporters.
Nguyen acknowledged that Washington’s sacrifices paved the way for her to become California’s first Democratic Vietnamese assemblymember. While on her way to the event, she witnessed homeless veterans on the streets and emphasized the need for more homes like the Collie Washington Veterans’ Home throughout the state.
Sacramento County is home to more than 75,000 veterans, with nearly 600 experiencing homelessness. According to the latest point-in-time count, more than 60% of homeless veterans are unsheltered.
Supervisor Patrick Kennedy noted the county’s commitment to helping homeless veterans. “It’s up to us to sacrifice for them, to provide a place where they can live a better life,” Kennedy said.
In June, Sacramento County partnered with the city of Rancho Cordova to develop the Mather Veterans Village at the former Mather Air Force Base. That project will offer new affordable housing and support services for homeless and disabled veterans and low-income families. The village builds on the success of three previous phases, which already serve more than 160 formerly homeless veteran households. Its fourth phase includes a three-story building with 70 apartments (58 one-bedroom and 12 two-bedroom units), a community center, and parking for 45 vehicles.
“This project is a significant step forward in providing essential support for our homeless and disabled veterans,” said Emily Halcon, director of Sacramento County’s Department of Homeless Services and Housing. “We’re proud to contribute land and create permanent supportive housing and affordable units for veterans transitioning out of homelessness.”
Supervisor Pat Hume added, “This collaboration shows our dedication to supporting those who served our country. It’s a hopeful example of what we can accomplish together.”
Nguyen and Kennedy committed to funding further similar projects.
“We’re going to do everything we can to ensure this house’s success so that you, Mr. Washington, can open up 100 more homes like this,” Nguyen said.The Collie Washington Veterans’ Home is currently accepting rental applications, which can be found here.