By National Coalition for Homeless Veterans Staff
One thing many veterans experiencing homelessness have in common is a lack of close family or friends they feel they can turn to for assistance.
During times of the year centered on togetherness or family, like Thanksgiving, those challenges are magnified. Presently veterans also face the challenge of finding a way out of homelessness during the second worst pandemic this country has faced.
The holidays are specifically a time when veterans can face additional mental health challenges and can use support. One big way we see this manifested is in withdrawal from family, friends, and group activities.
As the pandemic rages, it is important to find ways to check in on those we care about without putting their health at risk. Many shelters are not allowing family or friends to visit, volunteers to join in for shared meals, or large gatherings where their residents mix with others, including those who are unsheltered.
The pandemic has necessitated ingenuity and innovation at every turn, and this challenge is no different. Our community must find creative ways to support veterans and their mental health.
Volunteer groups can support veterans in their community by reaching out to local organizations serving veterans experiencing, and at risk of homelessness, to see what specific supports are needed.
NCHV member organizations across the country have expressed a need for increased donations, given the influx of veterans they are serving.
Beyond financial donations, they have also expressed needs ranging from food pantry restocks, to volunteers to host virtual activities with veterans, to donations of winter coats, boots, and move-in supplies.
Our country is in the midst of a crisis of housing affordability. If you are someone who has the privilege of being a rental housing provider, consider how you can assist in efforts to end veteran homelessness. Leasing to veterans exiting homelessness is the right thing to do, and veterans leasing with a subsidy have case management support while bringing a stable revenue stream that improves your bottom line as a landlord.
If you are an employer, or someone who has influence over hiring processes, consider hiring a veteran exiting homelessness. For those who are able to work, employment provides a steady income source with which to rent housing, afford essentials, and regain dignity.
Military training often leaves veterans with skills that include leadership, loyalty, teamwork, dependability, problem solving, and duty.
There may be tax benefits or other incentives available to your organization if the veteran has a service-connected disability.
Anyone can be a blessing to a veteran getting a fresh start, and it is more important than ever to do so during the uncertainty of 2020.
Visit [www.nchv.org] to learn more about the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.
Looking to Advertise? Contact the Crusader for more information.
"caring" - Google News
December 07, 2020 at 09:21PM
https://ift.tt/3gjU5CC
Caring for our homeless veterans during the holiday season | The Crusader Newspaper Group - The Chicago Cusader
"caring" - Google News
https://ift.tt/2z0ngcp
https://ift.tt/3fgQ2Gv
Bagikan Berita Ini
0 Response to "Caring for our homeless veterans during the holiday season | The Crusader Newspaper Group - The Chicago Cusader"
Post a Comment