How can you help?
There are services available to help veterans experiencing homelessness, but sometimes funding and services are limited. You can play a part in ending homelessness for veterans by becoming aware of the programs in your community and doing what you can to help.
Here are some ways to help veterans experiencing homelessness.
Community-Based Groups
Get involved with community-based programs that help relieve the problems of homeless veterans. Many of these non-profit groups offer the best ways to help vets transition from a state of homelessness to independent and permanent housing. Government money is often limited, so community groups help fill in the need with volunteers to provide support and resources for returning vets.
Local Government Officials
Contact your local officials, from your congressman to the mayor’s office, to find providers that offer help for homeless vets. Ask what’s being done in your community about helping the homeless. You can encourage more assistance for vets by the local government or ask how such programs can be developed.
Volunteer
Participate in local homeless coalitions and ask what they need most. Americans for Independent Living is always interested in volunteer help. From helping with renovations on a new transitional house to helping in the office putting together basic care boxes for veterans-there is something for everyone to help.
Form a Coalition
If homeless assistance for vets is lacking in your community, seek the help of other people you know who would like to get involved in helping homeless veterans. You can then form your own coalition.
Donate
If you are not able to volunteer at this time, you can still donate to community programs in your area that help homeless vets. Americans for Independent Living accepts donations of furniture, clothing, and household goods. Call the office at 319-232-2552 for drop-off or pick-up information. You can also call the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans at 1-800-VET-HELP.
Employment
An important part in preventing homelessness among veterans is through employment. If you’re a business owner, you can focus on hiring veterans, if possible. People can encourage their employers or businesses in the area to provide sustainable employment for veterans to avoid homelessness in your community. Workforce training and guidance for job seekers is another needed service.
Americans for Independent Living Volunteer Form
Thank you for your interest in volunteering for our organization!