by Terry Marsh

Created on: April 20, 2009

Military service members make selfless contributions to protect the safety and freedoms of our country, but some veterans return to civilian life ill prepared for a smooth transition into everyday society. Too often, they attempt to re-integrate themselves into a normal standard of living before they are mentally or emotionally equipped to do so. Unfortunately, many fall short of their objectives and become homeless, or living in less than honorable conditions just to survive.

The United States Department of Veteran Affairs recognizes homelessness among veterans as a problem reaching crisis proportions. They estimate that some 154,000 male and female veterans face being homeless each night, and that more than 300,000 are homeless at some point within a 12 month period. Many of the current homeless are reported to be
Vietnam
era veterans, but there are growing numbers of Desert Storm and Iraq War veterans experiencing homelessness each day.

The VA has several programs designed to aide homeless veterans. They range from identifying the various circumstances leading to a veterans' homelessness, to helping homeless veterans re-establish themselves with the training, skills, and follow-up necessary to succeed in everyday life. VA programs also assess the mental and physical health of homeless veterans, introducing them, many for the first time, to the programs and services which they have earned.

Stand Downs
for Homeless Veterans

Stand Downs are offered in many U.S.
communities, and are instrumental in identifying many of the veterans in need of shelter and other services. During wartime, Stand Downs are used to remove troops from dangerous front line assignments, to safe zones for much needed rest and relaxation. Stand Downs for Homeless Veterans are a joint effort by the VA and several community organizations to offer several days when needy veterans can eat nutritious meals, get clothing, obtain medical attention, and be directed to VA and community services designed to help get them the attention that the deserve.

Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans Program

Many of the VA Hospitals around the country are equipped to provide temporary in-house residential services to homeless veterans. These hospitals offer food, housing, clothing, residential treatment, and post-discharge services to more than 5000 homeless veterans each year. Social workers and medical professionals determine the mental, physical, and social needs of the veteran, and provide those services necessary

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