Biden admin introduces measures to combat veteran homelessness.

The Biden Administration Takes Action to Reduce Homelessness Among Military Veterans

The Biden administration has announced a series of initiatives aimed at addressing the issue of homelessness among military veterans. These actions are designed to provide support and resources to help veterans find stable housing and reintegrate into the labor force.

Investing in Communities

As part of their plans, the administration will be investing $3.1 billion to assist communities across the country in rehousing individuals experiencing homelessness. This funding will help provide the necessary resources and support to help veterans find stable housing and rebuild their lives.

Legal Services for Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs is also taking action by awarding $11.5 million to 79 public and nonprofit organizations through the new Legal Services for Veterans Grant Program. This program aims to provide legal assistance to veterans, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need.

Reintegrating into the Labor Force

The Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service will be awarding over $58 million in grants to help veterans who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness reintegrate into the labor force. These grants will provide job training and support services to help veterans secure employment and regain stability in their lives.

Improving Program Efficiency

The Department of Housing and Urban Development and the VA are launching a series of “boot camps” to improve the efficiency and impact of public housing agencies and VA medical centers. These boot camps will bring together stakeholders to share best practices and enhance the effectiveness of programs like the HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program.

A senior administration official stated that there will be 10 in-person boot camps held this year, with the goal of reinvigorating partnerships and increasing utilization of the program.

Progress and Goals

The efforts to reduce homelessness among veterans have already shown promising results. Since early 2020, the number of veterans experiencing homelessness has decreased by approximately 11%, and since 2010, it has decreased by over 55%.

VA Secretary Denis McDonough expressed confidence in meeting the administration’s goals, stating, “In 2022, we set a goal of permanently housing 38,000 veterans by the end of calendar 2022. Through the hard work of the administration, including with our interagency partners, dedicated VA employees, and advocates nationwide, we permanently housed more than 40,000 veterans.”

McDonough also highlighted the efforts to prevent homelessness, stating, “Last year in calendar 2022, we prevented more than 17,700 veterans and their families from falling into homelessness and helped nearly 192,000 additional veteran family members, veterans, and family members who are experiencing financial difficulties retain their homes and avoid foreclosure.”

It is important to note that the funding provided by HUD under the Continuum of Care program will benefit not only veterans but also anyone experiencing homelessness, demonstrating a commitment to addressing this issue on a broader scale.

These actions taken by the Biden administration reflect a dedication to supporting and empowering military veterans, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

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