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Palm Springs Today
By the People, for the People
Military Makeover with Montel® Begins Renovation on Dawson Family Home
Volunteers Needed for Season 45 Home Makeover Project in Palm Springs, FL
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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The latest season of 'Military Makeover with Montel®' is underway, and the show is seeking volunteers to help renovate the home of the Dawson family in Palm Springs, Florida. Matthew Dawson, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, will be the recipient of this home makeover, which is being done in partnership with Purple Heart Homes.
Why it matters
The Military Makeover series provides life-changing home renovations for deserving military veterans and their families, helping them transition to civilian life after serving their country. The Dawson family's story highlights the ongoing challenges many veterans face, including PTSD, physical injuries, and financial hardship, making this renovation project an important community effort.
The details
During his time in the Army, Matthew Dawson rose to the rank of Sergeant, with deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, before being medically boarded and honorably discharged. He now works as a foreman at a custom welding and fabrication shop while managing ongoing injuries that include PTSD, back and hip pain, hearing loss, and nerve damage. Matthew and his partner of 12 years, Christina, are raising two children and navigating post-military life. The renovation project will involve a variety of tasks, including organizing, painting, assembling products, assisting the designer, cleaning up, yard work, and more. No specific skill sets are required, and volunteers are welcome to sign up for one shift or all.
- The renovation project is part of Season 45 of 'Military Makeover with Montel®'.
- Volunteers are needed starting immediately to support the renovation work.
The players
Matthew Dawson
A U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, now working as a foreman and managing ongoing injuries from his service.
Christina Dawson
Matthew's partner of 12 years, supporting him and their two children as they navigate post-military life.
Purple Heart Homes
A non-profit organization partnering with 'Military Makeover with Montel®' to provide the home renovation for the Dawson family.
Jen Bertrand
The designer assisting with the home makeover project.
Montel
The host of the 'Military Makeover' TV series.
What’s next
Volunteers can sign up for the renovation project through the provided SignUpGenius link.
The takeaway
This home makeover project for the Dawson family is a heartwarming example of the community coming together to support a deserving military veteran and his family, helping them transition to civilian life after the sacrifices of service.
