According to new data released by the Department of Veterans Affairs (also known as the VA), the rate of homelessness among veterans declined by around 11% since 2020. This also indicates an overall drop in the number of homeless veterans by about 55% since 2010. This major drop in homelessness among veterans is attributed in no small part to active efforts by the VA to aid veterans struggling to afford housing.
What Do The Statistics Say?
According to the data released by the VA, the number of homeless veterans has dropped from 37,252 in 2020 to 33,136 in 2022, an overall drop of about 11%. This is the biggest decline in veteran homelessness in more than ten years, and contributes to an overall decline in the number of homeless veterans by about half. This is attributed in part to the VA’s “Housing First” initiative, which has sought to help homeless veterans find permanent housing.
Why Do Veterans Suffer From Homelessness?
Veterans suffer from homelessness at a higher rate than the rest of America, making up about one in ten of all homeless people despite being only 7% of the total population. This overall high rate of homelessness is due to a variety of factors, including physical and psychological disabilities that impair their ability to find work. Without adequate support to help them with their problems, they often fall behind on their bills and become homeless.
How Does This Affect Disabled Veterans?
Disabled veterans are among the most likely to become homeless, compared to other veterans, so efforts to aid homeless veterans often disproportionately help the disabled. By working to get them permanent housing, the VA gives disabled veterans a better opportunity to survive and treat their medical issues. Disabled veterans can also benefit from VA disability benefits, which can help pay their bills and let them afford the care they need.
What Can You Do if You Are Facing Homelessness?
If you are a veteran facing the risk of becoming homeless, or if you are homeless already, you may be able to benefit from programs currently being run by the VA. If you are disabled, you can also apply for disability benefits that can help you survive your injuries. However, in order to know what options may be available to you, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling veterans’ disability cases.
The attorneys of Sullivan & Kehoe place a special focus on assisting disabled veterans. Our veterans’ disability lawyers are still available for remote consultation on your legal issues. Call our office at (800) 395-7830 to schedule a consultation in our New York City, Garden City, Kings Park, Riverhead, or White Plains office, or visit our contact page.
