FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2025
Contact: Sudan Britton
Communication/Grants Coordinator
O:832-947-5634
C:346-762-0344
Sudan.Britton@texanacenter.com
Texana Center Launches Veteran Peer Support Program with New FVA Grant
(ROSENBERG, TX.) –Texana Center is proud to announce it has received $50,000 in funding through the Texas Veterans + Family Alliance (FVA) Grant Program to launch and expand veteran-to-veteran support services focused on mental health, connections, and resource access. The program is designed to build trust, foster connection, and help veterans navigate the often-complex network of available resources.
A key part of the program’s strength comes from leaders like Daniel Alander, a proud U.S. Army veteran with over 16 years of service in both active duty and reserves. Daniel’s extensive background includes roles in military service, corrections, veteran outreach, and mental health support. Certified through the Texas Veterans Commission as a Peer Service Coordinator, Daniel brings invaluable experience in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and veteran services to this initiative.
“Veteran peer support is a powerful tool for healing, connection, and empowerment. This 14-month grant will provide critical resources to expand peer support networks that help veterans navigate the often-difficult transition to civilian life, foster a sense of belonging within their communities, and ensure no veteran ever feels alone or forgotten when seeking the care and services they’ve earned,” said Wendy Olmstead, Clinic Manager-Veteran Support Services Manager at Texana Center.
The FVA grant will fund the creation of a program where trained veteran peer specialists assist fellow veterans in navigating benefits and services beyond those offered by the VA. These peer supporters provide culturally competent guidance and build bridges to healthcare, education, housing, employment, and emergency aid resources, with a special focus on underserved groups.
“By training veterans to support and guide one another, we are not only building a system rooted in trust and shared experience, but also creating a sustainable, veteran-led pathway to recovery, stability, and growth. With this grant, we can empower veterans to support one another, strengthen lives, restore hope, and fulfill our promise to those who have served,” Olmstead said.
Texana Center aims to set a new standard in veteran services by offering personalized, peer-led support that ensures no veteran feels isolated or overwhelmed.
After a year of funding, Olmstead hopes to see improved engagement and outcomes for veterans, including easier access to resources and stronger community connections.
This program is supported by a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations serving veterans and their families. For more information, visit www.tvc.texas.gov.
