Nearly $1.3 million targeting Nanaimo & Oceanside veteran homelessness

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Providing rental subsidies, or helping with unexpected bills such as car repairs or medical costs, are other ways the funding will help veterans.

wraparound supports

Nearly $1.3 million targeting Nanaimo & Oceanside veteran homelessness

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Covering counselling or clinical support costs is also expected to be a big part of the funding program.

Eligibility is determined through an app-based verification process, and supports can be issued within days if needed, Woodland said.

Veterans must live within the Regional District of Nanaimo to qualify for this specific funding through United Way, however other programs are active in different areas via the federal government and other non-profit operators.

Ensuring those who served are comfortable and thriving after their active careers end is essential, with Woodland saying creation of wraparound services are vital, especially for those dealing with brain injury, trauma or other lingering effects from their duties.

“We call it ‘navigation services,’ so being able to access different services that are available to people in the community, but it can be a bit confusing if you’ve never been in touch with those services before.”

Woodland admitted it’s difficult to get an accurate tally of veterans in the local region, especially those who are living rough or in precarious housing situations.

A biannual point-in-time count of those homeless in various communities does ask about veteran status, but some choose not to report.

Still, United Way BC is hoping local partners can connect with roughly 200 people a year through the RDN and provide supports for around 80.

The organization has already held meetings with several local non-profits in anticipation of the funding, further establishing relationships.

“We did have some of the legions from the region attend some meetings recently, which is really great to see. I know, just anecdotally, legions sometimes attract veterans who go in for assistance, so it’s often an access point for help, and so I do see that kind of role for the legions.”

More details on the funding, as well as eligibility criteria, are available here.

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