Homeless Vets Get Big Boost in Aid
by Freddy Groves
The Department of Veterans Affairs has printed in the Federal Register its
intention to provide a record $300 million to address veteran homelessness
for both fiscal years 2014 and 2015. The money will go to non-profit
organizations in the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program that
work with homeless veterans and their families.
The list of areas where these groups provide assistance is lengthy: Moving
and relocation expenses, child care, rent and utilities for those who
are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, transportation, housing
counseling, advocating with property owners, security deposits and
emergency expenses. In 2013 alone, SSVF assisted 39,000 veterans and
62,000 veterans with families.
Once the veteran and his or her family are in permanent housing, the
program continues, assisting the veteran with medical care, benefits and
services, daily living, financial planning, legal services and more.
While veteran homelessness has declined by 24 percent since 2009, in
January 2013 there still were 57,849 homeless veterans on the street. More
than 7 percent of those veterans were women.
If your non-profit organization wants to qualify to provide support
services to homeless or very low-income veterans and their families, start
online at www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf.asp. There is a lengthy process to be
accepted into the program. You also can call 877-737-0111 or via email at
SSVF@va.gov. Work quickly because your application has to be received by
March 14, 2014. Grants are for three years and will begin Oct. 1, 2014.
If you’re a veteran who is homeless or at risk to be homeless,
call 1-877-424-3838 (4AIDVET). Someone will answer 24/7, and many of those who
respond are veterans themselves. For information about VA and DOD programs
for brain injury, go to www.dvbic.org
Freddy Groves regrets that he cannot personally answer reader questions,
but will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Send email to
columnreply2@gmail.com.
(c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.



