The American Legion Family has always been adamant in advocating for ways to address homelessness. Unfortunately, the homeless veteran population is a very serious concern. On any given evening in our country, 39,471 veterans are homeless, and nine percent of those are women, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. At one point, the amount of homeless veterans was higher than the entire homeless population.

ALA members collect comfort and care items, and host stand downs. A stand down is a grassroots effort to provide necessities and services to veterans including blankets, clothing, toiletries, health check-ups, haircuts, and more. Many veterans have voiced great appreciation for the event. Click here for more about stand downs.

When we think of a homeless veteran, what often comes to mind is a homeless man. Homeless veterans are men, women, and children. For all they have given to us by serving our country, we need to do something for them.

An interesting project benefitting homeless veterans that received some national recognition in Florida is called Project Suds, which offers a portable shower facility. Volunteers take mobile vans equipped with bathing materials so that veterans can get cleaned up. They also provide necessities for veterans to go to the laundromat and do their laundry.

Grants to benefit veterans

The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation  provides grants to ALA entities that can help all veterans. Click here for more information on how grants can benefit veterans.

These are just a few examples of the many great things ALA does for our homeless veterans.