Meet the Organization That Could Eradicate Homelessness for Veterans

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.takepart.com/article/2014/11/10/meet-organization-could-eradicate-homelessness-veterans


HELP USA is closer than ever to eliminating homelessness among vets. With the support of Kenneth Cole and TakePart, it’ll ensure no soldier is left behind.


(Photo: Courtesy Help USA)

November 11, 2014 By Holly Eagleson

Regular TakePart contributor Holly Eagleson writes about social issues, culture, lifestyle, and food for Redbook, Marie Claire, Glamour, and others.


Robert LeBron is a textbook tough artilleryman. During his two tours in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army Rangers, he was regularly engaged on the front lines. But in 2002 a rocket-propelled grenade hit the helicopter LeBron was riding in, killing five; the experience left him shattered.

After leaving the service in 2006, LeBron had difficulty transitioning to civilian life, struggling with unemployment, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance issues. “[The armed forces] train you to do things that you would never do as a civilian but then expect you to turn that intensity off and find a regular job…from combat to customer service?” LeBron told HELP USA.

Unable to support himself and his 14-year-old son, LeBron turned to HELP USA, an organization that provides housing for returning soldiers. In HELP’s family shelter, LeBron was able to obtain counseling, enroll in school, and find secure housing for himself and his son.

“I’m getting help because I fought for my country,” LeBron said in an interview. “It feels good to have somebody fight for me, you know?”

FULL story at link.

[shenmue]

1. Awesome

[Old Nick]

2. Kick

More people should see this.

[JonLP24]

3. HUD Vash does a pretty good job in this area

I don't know how eligibility varies state-to-state but pretty much all that is required is saying that you're homeless for 6 months or more.

After that, you receive a Section 8 voucher. Since the VA funds it, there isn't waiting list or background check issues. Adding someone to the voucher means they'd have to pass a Section 8 background check which is basically no felonies or it was a long time ago and it depends on what it is.

You'd still have to pass whatever complex policy is when it comes to convictions or evictions. If you have no income, the city covers the rent. Significant income means you'd cover 30% of the rent. It covers you for 2 years, after that you're on your own.

Also case management is part of it so it is a combination of housing subsidization & case manager checking on you.

It also doesn't cover the cost of application fees or deposits but an organization such as "Save the Family" covers it no problem, you just have to provide a lot of paperwork.

There is also the US TIPS program which isn't as popular and features a waiting list. In Arizona, everyone is moved in the Garfield Commons on 16th street in Phoenix and the rent is covered for the first 6-8 months then after that you're on your own. This program also features case management also.