As the nation celebrates Veterans Day, it is important to remember that our brave servicemen and women need our support both during and after their service to the country. A recent report estimates that the number of vets homeless in Kansas has increased 14% from 2006 to 2008. In 2008, there were 712 homeless veterans in the state compared to 601 in 2006. Missouri has experienced a large decrease from 3,325 to 1,900 over the same time period.
Recent reports suggest that there are 131,000 homeless veterans across the country. This is a rate of 58 homeless veterans for every 10,000 veterans, more than double the rate of homelessness among the general population. Historically, veterans have made up one-fifth of the homeless population.
New data from the National Alliance to End Homelessness on the demographics of veterans and homeless veterans also reveal that some veterans of the current conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq are beginning to receive homeless services from the VA and that female veterans are increasingly represented in the pool of veterans who may face homelessness. The emerging characteristics of the homeless veteran population indicate that the network of services intended to prevent and end homelessness among veterans must be adapted to accommodate female veterans and the anticipated wave of veterans returning from the current conflicts.
Download the latest data here.
Here is your chance to help out locally!
The Heart of America STAND DOWN, which is scheduled from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, will give community members the chance to give thanks as well as offer strength and opportunity to misplaced veterans and their families.
