The Department of Veterans Affairs Homeless Prevention Program

The Department of Veterans Affairs has programs specifically to prevent homelessness or provide relief for veterans who are already homeless. If you or a veteran you know is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, these options may be able to help:

• Help for homeless veterans. The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans hotline ensures homeless veterans or veterans at risk for homelessness have free, 24/7 access to trained counselors. Call 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) or chat online to get connected and get back on track.
• Veterans Crisis Line. A VA responder is there to help, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls to the Crisis Line are confidential. Give them a call at 988 and press 1, start up a chat online or text 838255 for help now.
• Health care. Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) or visit the Veterans Affairs health care page for information on available health care programs.
• Employment services. Homeless Veterans Community Employment Services can help you find a job. They have Community Employment Coordinators to help veterans find and keep stable jobs. Find out more information about potential employment.
• Housing assistance. There are several federal programs designed to help you keep your home or find a new one that’s safe and reliable. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the VA Supportive Housing Program can help subsidize your housing costs until you get back on your feet. There are other programs, like the Grant and Per Diem Program where you’ll be supported by community funding and acquired property sales to get you a better deal on housing. Learn more about your housing assistance options at the VA website.

No matter your situation, the VA is eager to help you out. If you’re a veteran who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, or you know a veteran who is homeless, VA programs are there to help.