Understanding Homelessness Among Veterans: Causes and Solutions
- Bhavya Goel
- Sep 14, 2023
- 2 min read
The “Welcome Home” signs greet returning armed services personnel, A symbol of pride and joy. However, studies reveal a troubling reality: veterans face a higher risk of homelessness compared to the general population. This issue is particularly pressing for women veterans, who are often younger and more likely to deal with PTSD. While PTSD is a contributing factor, it is not the primary cause of homelessness among veterans, who are often younger and more likely to deal with PTSD. While PTSD is a contributing factor, it is not the primary cause of homelessness among veterans. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted reasons behind this issue and explore the government and community effort to address it.
Root Causes of Veteran Homelessness
Financial Struggles: Many veterans receive modest incomes and pensions that fail to keep up with rising housing costs. This financial strain often makes it challenging to secure stable housing, especially when faced with high rent.
Employment Hurdles: Transitioning from military to civilian life can be fraught with challenges. Veterans may lack the specific skills required for civilian jobs, leading to unemployment and underemployment. This increases their difficulties in finding affordable housing.
Mental Health Challenges: While PTSD plays a role, other mental issues like anxiety, depression, and loneliness can hinder veteran’s ability to find and maintain stable housing. These battles often go unnoticed but have a significant impact.
Physical Health Concerns: Despite their military training, many veterans return with injuries that can affect their long term physical health. This can limit their ability to perform jobs that require physical fitness.
Breakdown of Relationships and Supportive Structures: Returning veterans may find their family and support networks have disintegrated, leaving them without crucial familial support.
Digital Literacy Gap: In today’s digital age, lacking digital literacy can be a major obstacle in finding employment. Many veterans struggle to adapt to the technological demands of the job market.
Government and Community Interventions
The government has taken significant steps to support homeless veterans:
Veteran Assistance Offices: These centres provide essential information on services like emergency funds, healthcare, mental health support, financial aid, employment assistance , and vocational training.
Housing Funding: The government can allocate more funding towards housing for at-risk and homeless veterans, along with the construction of new affordable housing units designed specifically for them.
24/7 Support Services: Services like the National Calll Center for Homeless Veterans and Supportive Services for Veteran Families are vital lifelines for veterans in crisis.
Community Contributions
On an individual level, we can make a difference:
Guidance and Support: Direct homeless veterans to relevant support services and resources.
Advocacy for Affordable Housing: Advocate for the creation of more affordable housing projects, opposing NIMBY protests that often hinder such developments.
In conclusion, addressing veteran homelessness requires a collaborative effort from both the government and the community. By understanding the root causes and supporting the various initiatives in place, we can make significant strides towards ensuring that those who have served our country return to stable, secure lives.
Works Cited
Homeless Hub. (2021) . Is Veteran Homelessness a Problem in Canada?
Andrew Thurston. (November 9, 2022). Why Veterans Remain at Greater Risk of Homelessness.
Premier Wireless. (2021). Eight Factors Contributing to Veteran Homelessness.
Joseph M. Moranda. (11 Feb 2020). Homeless Veterans: It Takes a Community
