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VA Reports Less Homeless Veterans on Streets in 2011

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has declared a victory of sorts on their war against homelessness among veterans. According to the VA, there are 55,000 fewer homeless veterans on the streets. They credit the programs they run as being at least somewhat responsible for that drop in homelessness.

The VA mentioned their $46.2 million program that will eventually provide 6,790 homeless veterans permanent housing. The announcement was a fairly impressive one given an economy lacking any discernable movement at the same time more troops are being brought home. In June the number of homeless veterans on the street every night averaged about 75,700. This is down from an approximate 131,000 per night in 2009.

The goal is still to end homelessness among veterans by 2015. The rate at which veterans are returning stateside and entering civilian lives is increasing. The only way to combat homelessness from striking that group of veterans is to "get in front of it."

The VA has joined forces with multiple supporting agencies to ensure not only is there transitional and permanent housing available, but the wait time to get into that housing is as little as possible.

Increasing amounts of returning veterans facing bleak civilian futures will present a new challenge to the VA in meeting their 2015 goal. The VA, however, is determined to meet that goal.

If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.