Progress and Promise: A 7.5% Reduction in Veteran Homelessness and the Path Forward for All
The latest data from the 2024 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, conducted back in January, offers encouraging news on our shared mission to end veteran homelessness. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), along with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, announced a 7.5% reduction in veteran homelessness since 2023.
The data reveals that 32,882 veterans were experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2024. This represents a historic low and underscores the progress we’re making to end homelessness among veterans. Unsheltered veteran homelessness also decreased since last year. This success is due to the ongoing, coordinated efforts of agencies and community organizations nationwide, committed to providing housing and critical services to those who served our country.
NCHV CEO Kathryn Monet shares her perspective on these results: “The 2024 PIT Count data reflecting a 10% reduction in unsheltered veteran homelessness nationwide is positive news. After a brief spike, communities have been revitalizing local efforts. The return to decreases in veteran homelessness reflects the power of community work, the impact of housing-focused interventions, and the tenacity we see every day from organizations on the front lines of responding to this emergency,” said Monet. “These results remind us that when we come together with the intent to create systemic change, we can improve access to housing for veterans.”
By emphasizing the “Housing First” approach and prioritizing stable housing—paired with healthcare, job support, and other resources—we see that this not only helps veterans rebuild their lives but also serves as a model for tackling homelessness across all communities. The success of these interventions for veterans demonstrates the potential for similar strategies to make a meaningful impact in addressing civilian homelessness as well. However, we must recognize that the resources and funding for this work must be expanded and equitably distributed to ensure all individuals, both veterans and civilians, have access to the support they need to overcome homelessness.
As we look forward, let’s celebrate this milestone while remaining steadfast in our mission to end veteran homelessness by using and expanding on the proven polices that work. It is evident that through systemic change and community support, we are making a meaningful difference. We must also advocate for the resources and strategies be spread to the wider community to ensure that these successes are shared by everyone, regardless of their status, has the opportunity to thrive in stable housing.