New VA service aims to find employment for homeless vets

launching a new employment program aimed at helping homeless and at-risk veterans find work that matches their skills and abilities. The program, called Homeless Veteran Community Employment Services, will require VA medical centers to employ a Community Employment Coordinator (CEC) that can function as a liaison between local businesses and VA services. The goal of the CECs will be to identify opportunities and resources that will benefit not only the veteran population, but specifically those who are already homeless or at risk of becoming homeless after leaving service. The CECs will also collaborate with existing VA employment programs. In addition to employment services, Veterans Affairs offers housing assistance, health care, support services, and other programs that will further assist veterans who want to succeed in making the transition back to employment. “We know that finding gainful employment can change the life of a veteran,” said Robert A. McDonald, Secretary of Veterans Affairs. “This new program is a key component in the overall strategy to prevent and end veteran homelessness.” According to the Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs website, Veterans Affairs will focus on reaching out methodically and proactively to veterans that may be in need of this assistance. VA is also focusing on expanding the housing program for veterans that need an affordable place to live.]]>