Meet Our Founder

Many veterans feel invisible when they are facing eviction, homelessness, or trying to rebuild life after incarceration. Mrs. Shirley Hollingstead/White knows that struggle firsthand. As a veteran and the CEO/Owner of V.A. USA Independent Living Redeem the Dream, LLC, she founded this organization to change that story and bring veterans out of the shadows.

 

Drawing on her Criminal Justice degree, military service, and lived experience with housing and legal barriers, she understands trauma, addiction, and the fear of starting over. She is on a mission to end veteran eviction through stable, shared living, bridging the gap between struggling veterans and private landlords by leveraging programs like SSVF and HUD-VASH. She offers judgment‑free support, structure, and advocacy for mental health, addiction, and legal issues-including going to court with you if needed. She is here for you.

Our Mission

Across our nation, too many veterans come home to eviction notices, empty rooms, and silent nights. Inspired by President Lincoln's call to preserve our union and honor all who served, V.A. USA Independent Living Redeem The Dream, LLC is committed to ending veteran eviction by pairing affordable, shared homes with judgment-free support.


But a roof is only the beginning. We walk beside veterans, women veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors with mental health care, addiction recovery, legal guidance, and job opportunities-so every military family can reclaim stability, dignity, and true independence.

Why Redeem The Dream Began

Problem, our founder watched fellow veterans sleep in cars, on couches, and in unsafe rooms, treated like a number instead of human beings. Solution, she created veteran-focused shared housing where every resident has a stable bed, a safe environment, and people who truly understand military service.


Problem, many programs stop at short stays. Solution, our story centers on long-term stability, not quick exits.