May 06 2026
Texas

HAVEN Makes Homeownership Possible for Texas Veteran

Alicia Cannon, a U.S. Army veteran, had long dreamed of buying a home where she and her 11‑year‑old son could feel truly settled. That dream became a reality thanks in part, to a $25,000 Housing Assistance for Veterans (HAVEN) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas), which provided the down payment assistance needed to purchase their new home in Mansfield, Texas.

Ms. Cannon, a former 91 Charlie (heating and air conditioning repairer) during her Army service, said the move transformed their daily life.

“I prayed to God about being able to afford a home, and this grant was a blessing,” Ms. Cannon said. “The home is airy and full of natural light, and that has made a huge difference for my mental health.”

Awarded through participating FHLB Dallas member institutions, in this case Gulf Coast Bank & Trust, HAVEN provides grants for home modifications, new construction or down payment assistance to eligible veterans, active-duty service members and reservists with service‑related disabilities. It also supports Gold Star Families.

“The HAVEN program allows us to deepen our community impact in a meaningful way by helping veterans achieve stable housing,” said Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Senior Mortgage Lender and Military Specialist Juli Coen. “Ms. Cannon’s story highlights the value of these grants in a very real way.”

In 2026, FHLB Dallas allocated $1 million for HAVEN grants.

“HAVEN exists because too many veterans face barriers to buying a home that is affordable and the down payment is one of the biggest hurdles,” said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas. “Ms. Cannon’s story is a powerful reminder of why this program matters, and her experience shows how the HAVEN grant can help open the door to homeownership for veterans.”

Learn more about HAVEN.

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