Veterans Experiencing Homelessness Receive Support Funding From Local Organizations

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs is working to improve resources for veterans experiencing homelessness heading into the new year.

Because of the increase in the homeless population, the VA just announced additional funding will be given to organizations dedicated to helping veterans and their families.

The VA said hundreds of millions of dollars in funding will be given to organizations based on data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

That data shows nationally, there were more than 3,500 homeless veterans on a single night in January. That's 7 percent more than last year.

The Community Service Council in Tulsa is one of the local agencies receiving funding from the "Supportive Services for Veteran Families Grants."

CEO Rachel Runfola said her organization has earned the grant more than 10 years in a row.

She said it helps them give case management to low-income veterans who are homeless or facing eviction.

"The financial burden on those individuals to lose their housing and be evicted and then restart again and again, that is such a huge financial burden for folks. So it means for us we can maintain stability for our veterans," Runfola said.

For any veterans in need of help, you’re encouraged to call 2-1-1 to be screened for your eligibility to join.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Community Service Council in Tulsa.

CLICK HERE to learn more about 211.