Meet our Founders.
Hewitt & Hudson: The Strength, Purpose, and Spirit Behind H2 Housing
Housing hope, building futures, restoring dignity. Join us in making a difference!
Shaylaina Hewitt – Founder, H2 Housing / Hewitt Hudson Housing
Building Foundations for a Brighter Tomorrow: H2 Housing's Commitment to Community
Shaylaina Hewitt is a dedicated leader and advocate committed to helping individuals from all walks of life achieve stability and independence. She holds degrees in Social Science and Public Service Management from Tennessee State University and Cumberland University. Shaylaina has built a strong career in healthcare administration, public service, and community support, previously working with organizations such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, the Ohio Department of Insurance, Maximus supporting veterans’ services, the Bureau of TennCare, and ViaQuest.
She founded H2 Housing (Hewitt Hudson Housing) to provide safe, supportive housing for veterans, seniors, and individuals transitioning through life challenges. Her motivation is deeply personal and inspired by her love and support for her sister, Shalone “Cookie” Hudson, a Gulf War Disabled Veteran. Through H2 Housing, Shaylaina is committed to creating opportunities that help people rebuild their lives with dignity, stability, and hope.
Through H2 Housing, Shaylaina’s vision is simple yet powerful: to create housing with heart, powered by purpose. She believes that everyone—regardless of their background or life circumstances—deserves access to safe housing, respect, and opportunities to rebuild their lives. Her work reflects a deep belief in community, dignity, and service to others.
The Story of Shalone “Cookie” Hudson
A Gulf War Disabled Veteran’s Journey from Homelessness to Healing
Shalone Hudson, affectionately known as “Cookie,” is a proud Gulf War Disabled Veteran whose life reflects resilience, courage, and the power of transformation.
After serving her country honorably in the United States Armed Forces, Shalone returned home carrying the invisible wounds many veterans face. Living with PTSD, chronic stress, anxiety, and depression, she was prescribed medication that offered only temporary relief from the emotional toll of her experiences.
For more than two decades, Shalone worked in a demanding career with the United States Postal Service. Over time, the intense work environment, combined with the weight of her mental health struggles, deepened her depression and intensified the nightmares that often accompany PTSD.
In a brave act of self-preservation, Shalone made the life-changing decision to walk away from the career she had dedicated 22 years to building. Seeking peace and healing, she relocated to Las Vegas, hoping a new environment could help her reclaim her life.
The transition was not easy. Without stable housing, Shalone faced homelessness—an experience that many veterans unfortunately encounter after leaving military service. Yet even during those difficult days, she discovered small but meaningful moments of peace.
Coloring became a form of therapy, helping calm her mind. Long walks through the bright lights and energy of the Las Vegas Strip and Fremont Street gave her space to reflect, breathe, and slowly rebuild her sense of self.
During this time, she also found something equally powerful: community. Along the way, Shalone met a group of musicians who welcomed her into their circle. What began as chance encounters turned into chosen family. Their support, laughter, and companionship helped restore her sense of belonging and reminded her that she was not alone.
Through creativity, connection, and unwavering perseverance, Shalone gradually rebuilt her mental and emotional stability.
Today, Shalone proudly celebrates more than seven years opioid-free. Her journey has transformed her into a source of strength and guidance for others who are navigating similar battles.
At H2 Housing, she offers more than advice—she offers empathy born from lived experience. Operating from a place of love, peace, and understanding, Shalone supports veterans and individuals facing hardship, helping them see that healing and stability are within reach.
Her story stands as a powerful reminder that even after the darkest chapters, a new beginning is always possible.
Shalone “Cookie” Hudson’s journey is a testament to resilience, the healing power of community, and the belief that no matter how heavy the past may be, hope can still lead the way forward.