Message from Monica Diaz, Executive Director, VHA Homeless Programs Office - VA Homeless Programs
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Message from Monica Diaz, Executive Director, VHA Homeless Programs Office

December 2021

Monica Diaz

As 2021 concludes, the past year, unfortunately, did not provide the full restoration of normalcy many of us hoped it would. As we approach the second anniversary of the pandemic’s onset, I want to acknowledge the nearly 800,000 Americans who are no longer with us because of the virus. To those who are faced with their first, or second, holiday season missing a family member or friend lost to COVID-19, my heart is with you.

The pandemic has taught us a lot, but perhaps the most important lesson is with the great responsibility to take care of one other. Indeed, my fondest memories of this year have been when I have witnessed such concern for humanity, kindness, and generosity of spirit while serving alongside each public servant in the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) Homeless Programs Office (HPO), as well as collaborating with our partners in the government and private sectors.

The pandemic has increased the demand for homeless prevention and rapid rehousing services from VA. This year, HPO was able to make a positive impact on the lives of many Veterans who needed these services. Notably, in fiscal year 2021:

  • 221,351 unique Veterans were served by VHA Homeless Programs, including 33,579 female Veterans.
  • Nearly 70,000 Veterans and their families were placed in permanent housing or were provided resources that prevented them from becoming homeless.
  • 116,254 Veterans were reached by the Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) program, with 153 Stand Down events serving more than 30,000 Veterans across the country.
  • More than 10,300 Veterans were employed upon completion of all VHA homeless programs and services.

These accomplishments are significant and a source of optimism. Additionally, VA’s commitment to ending Veteran homelessness was affirmed by VA Secretary Denis McDonough’s visit to “Veterans Row” in Los Angeles, a city with the largest number of homeless Veterans in America. Secretary McDonough committed to housing every Veteran living on “Veterans Row” as well as 500 additional Veterans experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles by the end of this year.

While such progress should be celebrated, there is a great deal of work ahead. I ask that we all remember those Veterans experiencing homelessness this holiday season, particularly on Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day, observed during the longest night of the year to remember those lost to homelessness. You may consider organizing or attending an event in your community to commemorate those no longer with us or take action to help those in need this holiday season. Ways you can support Veterans experiencing homelessness this season include:

  • Donate essential items such as cold-weather gear, new or gently worn clothing and blankets, or non-perishable goods. Check your local VA Medical Center for a list of most-needed materials.
  • Volunteer to prepare and serve meals at a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter.
  • Collect or donate toys to families experiencing homelessness, either through a local organization or through the Marine Toys for Tots Program.
  • Spread awareness about the state of Veteran homelessness in your community to friends, neighbors, and community organizations.

Additionally, I encourage everyone to participate in Wreaths Across America Day to remember and honor our fallen U.S. Veterans. Wreaths Across America Day is a chance to give back, but I believe the annual event also can provide a gift to volunteers: a meaningful opportunity to pause and practice gratitude. I wish everyone happy and safe holidays and look forward to the progress we will make toward ending Veteran homelessness in 2022.

For more information about the VA Homeless Programs, visit www.va.gov/homeless.

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Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness can call or visit their local VA Medical Center (VAMC) and ask for a Homeless Coordinator. Use the VA locator tool www.va.gov/directory to find your nearest VAMC and call or visit today.

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