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July 05, 2022

A Texas-sized homecoming

Submitted by sempra_ian on

Last month, two deserving U.S. Army veterans stepped through the doors of their new Texas homes made possible in part with a supporting $50,000 grant from Sempra to Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit whose mission is to build strong, stable and secure military families. Operation Homefront’s Permanent Homes for Veterans program, along with residential homebuilder PulteGroup’s Built to Honor program, constructed the Houston-area suburban homes to recognize the sacrifices each family has made for our country while helping enable and empower these veterans for what comes next.

A day of celebration

U.S. Army veterans Kisha Dorsey and James Ford were joined by family members, friends and new neighbors, as well as representatives from other key organizations instrumental in making the dream of homeownership a reality. Both Dorsey and Ford explained how much they have been looking forward to the ribbon-cutting event since the initial groundbreaking in January, and shared their excitement about being new homeowners.

Kelly Prasser, Sempra Infrastructure senior manager of external affairs, represented Sempra at the event, providing remarks before both families were introduced on the podium for the special presentation of home ownership.

“Supporting Operation Homefront gives us the opportunity to live our values and to give back to veterans and their families who have made such great sacrifices for all of us, and we can’t thank you enough for your service,” Prasser said during her remarks. “Across our family of companies, we employ more than 800 veterans, and our company is stronger because of their contributions and commitment every day.”

Both Dorsey and Ford were surprised with a tree seedling from the Muster Oak, a historic Texas tree, on behalf of Harris County Commissioner Jack Cagle and the Houston parks department, in gratitude for their service to our nation. The Muster Oak has historical significance in Texas, as these trees would mark a meeting place in Fayette County where men and women would gather before departing for war. The tree was particularly special to Ford, who is planning to pursue a Ph.D. in ecology and evolutionary biology at Rice University in Houston beginning this year. Dorsey expressed her gratitude for the gift as well and is looking forward to seeing it grow as her family enjoys their new yard and home.

Championing people by supporting veterans

Dorsey and Ford are the recipients of the 72nd and 73rd Built to Honor homes and are two of more than 700 veterans Operation Homefront has helped through its Permanent Homes for Veterans program. Since 2020, Sempra has donated over $70,000 to Operation Homefront and is honored to champion people and strengthen our Texas communities.