Congress has provided over $300 million through the CARES Act to help VA address the problems that homeless and at-risk Veterans face during the COVID-19 pandemic. John Kuhn, national director for VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families program, explains on this episode how VA is using that funding to support Veterans and their families.

Supportive Services for Veterans Families, or SSVF, was founded in 2011 to help Veterans and their families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. SSVF transfers its funds to nonprofit organizations that are close to their communities, and these grantees ensure that money is directed to wherever it’s needed most. SSVF provides money for rent to Veterans who have homes but are struggling; it also helps Veterans and their families who are homeless to find housing.

CLICK HERE FOR THE 2020 SSVF PROVIDER LIST

While SSVF is dedicated to helping Veterans and their families find long-term housing, the Grant and Per Diem Program focuses on helping Veterans and families find housing in the short term. GPD provides funds to programs that provide housing and important services to Veterans in need. The Health Care for Homeless Veterans Program helps to connect Veterans and their families with shelter and provides a higher level of care than SSVF.

Those who are interested in donating to help address the crisis of Veteran homelessness can call their local VA medical center or visit the VA Voluntary Service to make an e-donation.

1-877-424-3838 is the 24-hour phone number for Veterans who must access the VA medical center for assistance.


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Rob Laucius is a podcast intern with the VA’s Digital Media Engagement Team. He is an undergraduate History student at Hillsdale College.

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3 Comments

  1. chika July 4, 2020 at 04:25

    It breaks my heart to know that they are out there afraid and scared! But what programs can you trust, that will help them with what they need?

  2. Allen Slovik July 3, 2020 at 14:18

    I had alot of good directions from Volunteers of America. Tarrant Countys Health Human services. Not much luck with food stamps.Family Endeavors may be another avenue. Be patient God bless these people, but be ready for lots of paperwork to be faxed,emailed and the communication of phone calls. I’m ex Air Force with disabilitys both mental and physical so rent is impossible and forget the 9-5er. What’s the point? It’s to strengthen your character and build self esteem knowing the next challenge could be a repeat.

  3. Lonnie McCaughey July 2, 2020 at 14:45

    With all that some or most veterans have given for this country! How could this country let them become homeless? It breaks my heart to know that they are out there afraid and scared! But what programs can you trust, that will help them with what they need?

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