Every year on October 10th, communities around the globe observe World Homeless Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about homelessness, encouraging local responses to the issue, and highlighting the solutions that can help address the needs of those experiencing homelessness. While homelessness is a global problem affecting millions, one specific group that deserves focused attention is homeless Veterans.

According to The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, on a single night in January 2023, there were 35,574 Veterans who experienced homelessness in the U.S. This reflects a 7.4% increase in the number of Veterans experiencing homelessness from 2022.

The reasons behind Veteran homelessness are complex and multifaceted. They include:

• Mental Health Challenges: Veterans are disproportionately affected by conditions like PTSD, depression, and substance abuse, which can make it difficult to maintain steady employment or housing.
• Lack of Affordable Housing: Veterans, especially those with low incomes or disabilities, often struggle to find affordable housing options, particularly in high-cost urban areas.
• Unemployment and Underemployment: Transitioning back to civilian life can be a major challenge for Veterans, and many face difficulties finding stable, well-paying jobs after their service.
• Social Isolation: The lack of a strong support network after leaving the Military can leave Veterans feeling disconnected, exacerbating mental health and financial struggles.

Veterans who have risked their lives in service to our country should not have to go without basic needs. On World Homeless Day, it’s essential to reflect on this issue, understand the root causes of Veteran homelessness, and explore the solutions that can help end this national crisis.

How Soldiers’ Angels Supports Homeless Veterans

Soldiers’ Angels developed the Homeless Veteran Housing Pack program to help meet the needs of newly housed (and chronically homeless) Veterans being treated at VA Medical Centers. This program was developed based on feedback from the VAVS staff indicating this was an area of critical need.

HUD/ VASH Social Workers and Case Managers who are getting Veterans into housing can register the Veteran for our program to receive supplies for their new home. Could you imagine having to restock a home with all of the essentials? Bedding, kitchenware, bathroom necessities, etc. can add up to a big expense when starting from scratch.

“The kit was such a huge help and relief. It allowed me to still get the basic necessities while freeing up money to spend elsewhere, helping to avoid a financial burden. Thanks so much.”

This is why our program exists!

What’s in a Veteran Housing Pack?

Supplies in the pack can vary based on supplies in stock, but every Veteran Housing pack includes the following essentials:

Kitchen Kit

• Cutlery set (spoons, forks, knives)
• Set of pots and pans
• Set of glasses
• Dish set
• Trash can
• First aid kit

Bathroom Kit

• Small trash can
• Shower curtain liner
• Shower curtain rings
• Set of towels
• Toilet plunger and brush

Bedroom Kit

• Bed-in-a-bag (depending on bed size) – comforter, sheets, pillowcases
• 2 pillows
• Hangers

Sometimes, we are able to include cleaning supplies like brooms, dustpans, and mops; flashlights, toothbrush holders, and soap dishes have also been included at times.

“You guys do a great job with the home gifts. Brings some humanity back into homelessness. Words will never be enough for what you’ve done, yet it’s all I have besides a home. Thank you so so much.”

World Homeless Day serves as a powerful reminder that homelessness can affect anyone, even those who have served their country with honor. By focusing on the specific needs of homeless Veterans, we provide them with the care and dignity they deserve. Soldiers’ Angels supports at-risk and homeless Veterans in multiple ways, ensuring we are standing in the gaps to support our nation’s heroes. In addition to our Veteran Housing Packs, we also host monthly Military & Veteran Food Distributions in six locations across the country, hand out box lunches to Veterans in need within the VA Hospital system, and support Stand Downs by handing our hygiene items, blankets, and box lunches.

This World Homeless Day, let’s honor our Veterans by making sure they receive the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives. If you’d like to support our efforts, we encourage you to register as a volunteer and join us for one of our Food Distribution or other VA related events or make a donation to help fund our programs.

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