We are forever grateful for the honorable service and dedication given by U.S. service members to protect our country.
In working with Veterans for many years, we have recognized the challenges that come as Veterans transition from their time in service to civilian life. Despite efforts to provide more support to them, there are unfortunately many Veterans who experience homelessness in the U.S. Read the stats and then check out some resources we have provided to help correct this problem.
As of 2024, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported that 32,882 Veterans are experiencing homelessness(. While this is a lower number than the 35,574 Veterans experiencing homelessness in 2023, it is still way too high. Additionally, 12,851 Veterans were considered unsheltered in 2024.
Transitioning from active duty to civilian life can come with numerous obstacles, all hindering a Veteran’s ability to successfully find housing.
There are numerous reasons that the general population may struggle with homelessness. With a shortage of affordable housing, limited access to healthcare, and the challenge of earning a livable income, maintaining housing can be difficult.
On top of these already existent struggles built into the housing system, Veterans are particularly at-risk of homelessness due to the challenges of reentering civilian life. Displaced Veterans may be dealing with effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or substance abuse. Moreover, Veterans experience a higher likelihood of complicated family and social support networks, meaning they may not have a supportive person to turn to when faced with homelessness.
Additionally, Veterans may struggle with finding a civilian job. While still very important and honorable, the skills learned and perfected during military service do not always transfer to the civilian workforce. Also, with the U.S. workforce being highly competitive, Veterans may lack the needed training and resources to compete for employment. These factors may prevent Veterans from being able to find and maintain a job, and earn enough income to support them.
Along with the risk of dealing with PTSD, Veterans may also be living with a long-term disability caused by their time in service. When a disability prevents a Veteran from being able to work, they may be eligible for Veterans Disability Benefits.
No one should have to deal with homelessness alone, especially not Veterans. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing homelessness, consider reaching out to the following:
These resources are in place to help provide a support system to Veterans, all with the goal of helping Veterans get out of and/or avoid homelessness. At Fight4Vets, we are dedicated to helping Veterans. We believe they deserve someone to advocate for them when it comes to receiving well-deserved disability benefits – call us for a free consultation on how to get started.
