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For Immediate Release For more information, call
March 26, 2001 Toni Smith
(614) 221-9195
VETERANS ARE SPECIAL HOMELESS POPULATION
Every November we pull out our flags, turn on war movies and perhaps attend a parade to honor our veterans. Little more is done to compensate those who risked life and limb to defend us from enemies near and far by the majority of Americans who take the day off work.
This November, there is new information from a study on homeless veterans that should cause us to take a moment more to think about and perhaps act on behalf of those who made major sacrifices to guarantee our freedoms.
Homelessness, while a problem for the entire community, is a particular problem for veterans. The Community Shelter Board (CSB) funded a study of homeless veterans that will be presented at a symposium on November 14th at 3 PM at CSB. Veterans’ service providers will also be present to share information about resources available to homeless veterans. Invited groups include the Veterans Service Commission, the Department of Veterans, and Veterans of the Vietnam War, Inc.
The study identifies some special aspects of homelessness as related to veterans in central Ohio.
"Homeless veterans represent about 25 percent of the homeless population, they tend to be older, non-white and, they are working and have more income than others who are homeless," said Matt White, associate director of the Community Shelter Board.
When assessing the reasons for the over-representation of veterans among the homeless population, there are no easy answers. "Michael" a veteran who has experienced homelessness first-hand noted that his problems began three years ago after he was injured and no longer able to work. He’s having problems getting his disability and without it, he can’t afford a place to stay.
"When the floor falls out from under you and you’re left with nothing, the system doesn’t work," said Michael.
The CSB report recommends that systems designed to support veterans should work better to prevent homelessness and more quickly respond when someone becomes homeless. More supportive housing would also benefit homeless veterans who are disabled.
"We hope this information will draw much needed attention to the plight of homeless veterans and homelessness in general, " said White.
The Community Shelter Board, established in 1986, is a non-profit intermediary organization that coordinates community based efforts, fosters collaboration, and funds services to assist families and individuals in Central Ohio to resolve their housing crisis. The Community Shelter Board allocates $6.0 million annually to support programs at 15 agencies. Last year, these programs served more than 11,000 individuals. The Community Shelter Board is funded by the City of Columbus, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, the United Way of Franklin County, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the State of Ohio, and other public and private donors.
For more information about the study, call the Toni Smith, Community Relations Director for the Community Shelter Board at 221-9195.
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