VA Accepting Applications for 1997 Homeless Assistance Grants

Washington, D.C. -- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is accepting applications from public and nonprofit private groups for funds to develop programs that help veterans recover from homelessness.

Grants awarded under VA's Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program can provide up to 65 percent of the cost of acquiring, constructing or renovating facilities that will be used for supportive housing or as service centers. The program, authorized in 1992, has some $3.3 million in available funds this fiscal year.

"In three short years, this relatively small grants program has enabled us to effectively pool our energies and resources with community groups throughout the country in our shared goal of ending this terrible tragedy among our nation's veterans," said VA Secretary Jesse Brown.
In FY 1994-96, VA awarded 84 grants totaling nearly $18 million to groups in 32 states and the District of Columbia to develop new homeless assistance programs. The grant and per diem program is responsible for approximately 1,700 new community-based beds.

Organizations that are currently grant recipients or are eligible for grants may apply for per diem payments, or in-kind assistance, from VA for providing services to veterans.

VA is the only federal agency providing substantial hands-on assistance directly to homeless persons. In addition to the grant and per diem program, VA is directing some $92.5 million to its specialized homeless assistance programs this year, including establishing health care and rehabilitation programs for homeless veterans and conducting greater outreach to provide benefits counseling and referrals to other VA programs.

VA will contact more than 4,000 groups and individuals about the availability of the grants, including veterans service organizations, other nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and congressional offices.

For a copy of the application package, contact:

Veterans Industries
10770 N. 46th Street (A400)
Tampa, FL, 33617-3465
Phone: (813) 228-2871.