VA Homeless Programs
Message from Monica Diaz, Executive Director, VHA Homeless Programs Office
September 2024
September doesn’t just bring cooler temperatures and the smell of pumpkin spice. We mark many important national observances this month, and I’d like to focus today on two of them.
The first is National Suicide Prevention Month—which is particularly meaningful at VA, where one of our top priorities is preventing Veteran suicide.
During this season each year, I reflect on the connection between homelessness and suicide risk and how our work can stop homelessness from turning into hopelessness.
Having a place to call home is essential to having good mental health. It can make you feel grounded, safe, and secure. Through the simple act of being able to close a door, you can tune out the rest of the world, take a break, and begin to heal.
When you’re without a home, these feelings evaporate. Losing your housing is devastating. And for those already struggling with mental health concerns, it can be a tipping point.
Veterans already have a higher-than-average risk of suicide. Experiencing homelessness increases that even more, especially in the immediate days and weeks surrounding loss of housing.
According to the 2023 National Veterans Suicide Prevention Annual Report, the suicide rate among Veterans enrolled in VA care with a history of homelessness was 113 per 100,000 in 2021. This is a 38.2% increase from 2020, one of the highest rates of all the subpopulations of Veterans analyzed.
When we protect against homelessness, we also help protect against suicide risk. Through our work, we can give Veterans stability and security. This not only helps them in the short-term, but also gives them the resources they need so their risk of suicide won’t rise if they ever face housing instability again.
If you or a Veteran you know needs housing or mental health resources, help is available. Contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans for immediate assistance, or complete our self-assessment to find support that is designed specifically for you.
Another national observance in September that’s particularly close to my heart, as a native of Puerto Rico, is Hispanic Heritage Month. I’d like to thank all the Hispanic Veterans who have served in our nation’s military and helped secure our freedom.
We recognize that Veterans from historically underrepresented groups, including those of Hispanic descent, can have more roadblocks and barriers to housing thrown in their way.
We remain committed to providing culturally sensitive care and services so that all Veterans, regardless of race or background, are given the same access to housing assistance and the same opportunity to find homes.
