CSH Advancing Supportive Housing for Veterans

In the midst of the worst economic downturn since World War II, our nation is facing a significant increase in the overall number of homeless people. Add to this challenge the tens of thousands of US service personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and we face the possibility of a considerable increase in homelessness among veterans. Sadly, veterans of our armed forces are disproportionately more likely to be homeless when compared to other groups. About 26% of all people experiencing homelessness are veterans although only 11% of the US population has served in the military. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reported last year that 154,000 veterans are homeless on any given night and that perhaps twice that many experience homelessness during the course of a year. Homeless veterans tend to be single males from disadvantaged backgrounds. Nearly half are experiencing mental illness, perhaps combat- related, and many are struggling with substance use issues and addictions.

The Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) is committed to ensuring that veterans receive the housing and supportive services that they deserve. CSH's work to end homelessness among veterans includes providing project-specific technical assistance and financial assistance for veteran supportive housing projects throughout the country. To date, CSH has assisted 53 projects across 12 states, providing both technical assistance and $7.4 million in predevelopment and acquisition loans. This work has added nearly 2,850 supportive housing units for veterans to the pipeline.

To view "Supportive Housing for Homeless Veterans: An Overview of Key Considerations," click here.

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