An estimated 400 veterans are homeless in Dallas. For the Homeless Veterans Services of Dallas (HVSD), one homeless veteran is one too many.
Located in the Veterans Resource Center, the HVSD serves as the first place veterans can go for assistance on their path to self-sufficiency. Employees at the center inform homeless veterans about employment and educational opportunities as well as non-profit organizations that can provide practical support.
More importantly, veterans are introduced to the vast array of state and federal Veterans Administration resources that they are eligible for because of their service in the U.S. Military.
Since its creation in 2004, more than 60,000 DFW area veterans have received assistance at the center. HVSD is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to improving the lives of homeless and at-risk veterans and their families.
Federally, help is available for homeless veterans and those at risk of homelessness. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to ending homelessness among the nation’s heroic veterans. The VA’s focus takes a three-prong approach:
- Conducting coordinated outreach to seek out veterans who need assistance
- Connecting homeless and at-risk veterans with housing solutions, health care, and community employment services
- Collaborating with other government agencies, employers, housing providers, faith-based and community non-profits, and others to expand employment and affordable housing options for veterans exiting homelessness
Locally at HVSD, donations and volunteer opportunities are welcome by calling 214-287-0326 or stopping by at the Lancaster Road location.