A veterans non-profit in Wichita Falls is making significant progress on several key projects aimed at honoring and supporting local veterans. From renovating the Wichita County cemetery to building tiny homes for homeless veterans, Home for Freedom is committed to making a lasting impact.
Restoring the Wichita County Cemetery
Currently, the Wichita County cemetery off Highway 281 looks like an open field, but thanks to Kenny Reynolds and Lisa Lothenor with Home for Freedom, it is undergoing a much-needed transformation.
- New Entrance & Gate Installation – A key part of the renovation is a brand-new entrance, making the cemetery more visible and accessible.
- Headstone Maintenance & Groundskeeping – Over 80 veterans are laid to rest here, and several headstones require care and restoration.
- Community Awareness – Many locals aren’t even aware of the cemetery’s existence, and Home for Freedom hopes the improvements will help preserve its history.
“A lot of people don’t know that that’s out there,” said Lothenor, the group’s founder. “It’s hidden very well, but we want people to know that there is a county cemetery with a lot of history.”
Building Tiny Homes for Homeless Veterans
Beyond honoring fallen veterans, Home for Freedom is working to improve the lives of living veterans through housing initiatives.
- Tiny Homes Project – The non-profit is constructing two tiny homes for homeless veterans on a city-donated lot at Clark and Pearl.
- City Support – Veteran and city councilor Mike Battaglino remembers when Reynolds first presented the idea, and the city stepped in to help.
“The city donated the lot, and now Home for Freedom is working toward placing two tiny homes there for homeless veterans,” said Battaglino.
Providing Service Dogs to Veterans in Need
Another incredible initiative by Home for Freedom is providing fully trained service dogs to veterans who need companionship and support.
Service Dog Giveaways – These dogs can be life-changing, helping veterans with PTSD, mobility assistance, and emotional support.
The Power of Community Support
While Home for Freedom has made huge strides, Reynolds and Lothenor credit county and city support for making these projects possible.
“Without them, this doesn’t exist, this doesn’t happen,” Reynolds said. “It really shows how important the relationship is.”
With continued community backing, these projects will improve the lives of veterans and preserve the memory of those who have served.