The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness among veterans. The plans include significant funding through grants and the launch of a new initiative to engage community leaders.

One of the primary components is the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Grants. In the coming year, VA will allocate hundreds of millions in funding to organizations focused on rehousing veterans and their families, preventing home loss, or finding suitable housing alternatives. This funding will commence operations on October 1, 2025.

Additionally, the VA will distribute approximately $15 million annually over three years through Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Case Management Grants. These funds are designated for renewing existing grants, with awards ranging from $75,000 to $300,000 based on various factors such as case manager numbers. The goal is to support around 120 full-time equivalent case manager positions across approximately 90 renewal grants.

A new national initiative called the Mayor’s Pledge to House Homeless Veterans has also been introduced. This program encourages mayors nationwide to collaborate with landlords in their communities to provide rental units for veterans involved in VA's homeless programs. "Today, we call on mayors across the nation to take action to help us combat Veteran homelessness," stated VA Secretary Denis McDonough.

These efforts are part of a broader commitment by the Biden-Harris Administration and VA to eliminate veteran homelessness. Since measurement began in 2009, veteran homelessness has reached its lowest point nationwide, decreasing by 7.5% since 2023 and by 55.6% since 2010.

Secretary McDonough emphasized the importance of stable housing for veterans: "For many Veterans experiencing homelessness, the first step in ensuring they can take full advantage of VA services is to get them stable housing." He added that these new grants are vital in providing more housing and services than ever before.

The Mayor’s Pledge runs until September 30, 2025. Mayors participating in this pledge will work with local landlords and property managers via an online portal managed by local VA teams to connect veterans with available rental units.

For further details about these grant opportunities or other efforts by VA to end veteran homelessness, interested parties can visit VA.gov/homeless.