Legislation will provide homeless veterans with transition resources
Washington, D.C. – May 25, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) announced today her introduction of legislation to assist homeless veterans with their transition into permanent housing. The Homeless Veterans Welcome Home Act, H.R. 2522, is supported by The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans and the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Congresswoman Beatty was joined by 15 Members as original co-sponsors of this legislation.
“As we honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation on Monday, it is fitting to introduce legislation that would assist homeless veterans during their transition into permanent housing,” said Rep. Beatty. “Our veterans served our nation with honor and distinction, providing them the tools they need to transition successfully into civilian life is one way to thank them for their selfless service and sacrifice.”
The Homeless Veterans Welcome Home Act would establish a national pilot program to provide furniture, household items, and other assistance to help homeless veterans as they transition into permanent housing. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), approximately 40,000 homeless veteran families receive housing through VA housing assistance programs each year. However, most veterans who receive housing do not have the means to pay for critical household items and typically move into empty apartments. H.R. 2522 would help fill this important gap in our assistance to homeless veterans by addressing their immediate move-in needs.
There are nearly 70,000 veterans in Franklin County, comprising 17% of the total population of the county. Unfortunately, a recent study by the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio’s 2013 Homelessness Report, found a 9% increase in veterans homelessness statewide from 2012 to 2013. The largest increase in veteran homelessness in Ohio was reported in Columbus/Franklin County, which experienced a 57% increase in veteran homelessness between 2012 and 2013, a total of 309 homeless veterans in 2013.
