
Tackling veteran homelessness
NDWCC PROFILE:Make this your reason to give.During the 2019 National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign, consider supporting charities that support homeless veterans.Veterans’ homelessness is a growing issue in Canada. According to a 2014 report published in the Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health, there were 2,950 veterans staying in shelters, making up 2.2 per cent of annual shelter users. The report also highlighted how approximately 25 per cent of the veteran population in Canada face difficulties transitioning from military service to civilian life, and have an increased risk of homelessness, mental illness, and addictions. While veterans make up approximately two per cent of the Canadian population, advocates are concerned with the overrepresentation of veterans in the homeless population.Factors at playNo one organization or group or level of government can hope to tackle veterans’ homelessness on their own. There are a multitude of factors that contribute to, and perpetuate this issue.The study noted that veterans comprised 4.3 per cent of a sample of the adult homeless population with severe mental illness. Veterans identified additional transition challenges beyond starting a new career. One veteran described the transition “like being on Mars and coming back to earth”. Veterans can be hesitant to ask for help, not feeling worthy of the supports made available to them or being distrustful of those offering help.VAC questionnaires and application forms can seem daunting and complex.The study showed a higher incidence of addiction and mental illness among veterans, but especially for those experiencing homelessness. While 11 per cent of veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), many reported using alcohol to deal with their mental health, and some started using while in the military.Some of the problems that put veterans at risk of homelessness were not present when they began their military services, but instead developed over time. To...