Solving Homelessness for Military Veterans

Vets like Larry get their lives back through housing

The Situation

"PTSD really messes with you," says Larry, an Army Vet who was shot three times. But now with help from Clifford Beers Housing, he says he "feels like a human being again."

On any given night in the U.S., 38,000 Veterans are experiencing homelessness, with 4,000 of those in LA County (HUD 2018). Veterans experience homelessness at a higher rate than the civilian population. Why is this? Because of their military service, Veterans are at a greater risk for traumatic brain injuries and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Both of these diagnoses have proven to be very high risk factors for homelessness. Additionally, Veterans often find it hard to assimilate to civilian life when they arrive home, especially if they lack a strong support system. According to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, the biggest challenge to ending veteran homelessness is housing affordability.

The Solution

Clifford Beers Housing currently has 30 apartments designated solely for military Veteran households, with more in the works. Supportive services have proven to be effective for Veterans with PTSD, substance abuse issues, and mental illness. Larry, an army Veteran who lives at King 1101, said that with housing and supportive services he was finally able to manage his debilitating PTSD, keep appointments, and get his life back on track.

Resources

If you are or know of a veteran who is looking for housing, here are some helpful links:

211 Los Angeles: Veteran Services
National Veterans Foundation (NVF): List of Resources
VA.gov: Resource List
Caring.com: Assisted Living Resources for Veterans