WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced that it has successfully housed 43,116 Veterans experiencing homelessness between October 2023 and August 2024. This achievement exceeds its fiscal year 2024 goal of 41,000 Veterans, accomplished a full month ahead of schedule.
The VA’s success in surpassing its target reflects a concerted effort under the Biden-Harris Administration to prioritize the elimination of Veteran homelessness. As part of these efforts, the VA has engaged 38,476 unsheltered Veterans, ensuring they receive not only housing but also access to essential services designed to support their transition to stable living environments. Remarkably, 96.3% of the housed Veterans have not returned to homelessness, indicating the effectiveness of the support systems in place.
“No person who has served this country should ever have to experience homelessness,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “As a result of this year’s efforts, more than 43,000 formerly homeless Veterans now have access to the homes that they deserve. And make no mistake: we won’t rest until every Veteran has a safe, stable, accessible, and affordable home to call their own.”
The broader implications of this achievement are profound, particularly in light of the overall reduction in Veteran homelessness in the U.S. The number of homeless Veterans has decreased by over 4% since early 2020 and by more than 52% since 2010. Such progress not only enhances the quality of life for Veterans but also contributes to community stability and welfare across the nation.
The VA has also made notable advances in the Greater Los Angeles area, housing 1,647 homeless Veterans this fiscal year alone. This makes Los Angeles the leading city in America for housing homeless Veterans for the third consecutive year, exceeding the VA’s targets for the region by 2.6%. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority reported a substantial 22.9% reduction in the number of homeless Veterans between 2023 and 2024, underscoring the impact of these initiatives.
This milestone represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to eradicate Veteran homelessness. By providing access to safe and stable housing, the VA ensures that those who have served the country receive the support and dignity they deserve. The continued commitment to this cause not only honors the sacrifices of Veterans but also strengthens communities nationwide, paving the way for further progress in the fight against homelessness.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.