A Garden of Respite Amidst Delayed Promises

An overgrown garden on the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs campus has been restored by veterans, providing a peaceful retreat. Meanwhile, housing construction for homeless veterans on the 387-acre campus is behind schedule.

Restoring a Sanctuary

Every Thursday, John Follmer—an Iraq war veteran and adviser to Los Angeles County on military and veterans affairs—leads gardening activities on the campus. The garden, originally built in 1968, had fallen into disrepair before Follmer began restoring it six years ago.

Some veterans work the soil; others simply visit for the tranquility.

"It’s a peaceful place," Follmer said. "Veterans don’t have to work—just stepping into the garden justifies its purpose."

A Legacy of Broken Promises

The West LA campus was donated in 1888 specifically for veterans. Yet a 2012 NPR investigation revealed that the VA was using the campus for purposes other than veteran housing while many veterans remained homeless.

While housing for over 1,200 veterans has been built, construction is years behind schedule.

The Trump administration promised to accelerate building, but did not fund new beds in its annual budget request. The VA stated that funding will come later. Additionally, the White House required VA officials and advocates to sign NDAs about construction, drawing bipartisan criticism.

Patience, Persistence, and Hope

Follmer acknowledged that veterans are upset about the lack of amenities—like supermarkets and coffee shops—on the north campus, but he advises patience.

"Through consistent effort, the garden can overcome years of neglect and inspire veterans, especially those recovering from addiction," he said.

The restored garden stands as a small but steady reminder that even in the face of systemic delays, something beautiful can be cultivated—one Thursday at a time.