(Photo: Airman Magazine)
A recent change in federal regulation is set to make it easier for Veterans to secure housing in Los Angeles. This initiative, announced Thursday by VA Secretary Denis McDonough and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, eliminates barriers that previously prevented many Veterans from accessing housing assistance.
“Ending homelessness for Veterans in Los Angeles will demonstrate to the nation how it can be done,” McDonough stated during a press conference, highlighting the city’s potential to serve as a model for tackling this issue nationwide.
Under the previous regulations, Veterans were forced to choose between receiving disability benefits and qualifying for housing vouchers due to income restrictions. This left thousands of housing vouchers unused and contributed to homelessness among Veterans.
“The old rules put our Veterans in an impossible position,” Mayor Bass said. “How could we ask those who have served our country to make such a choice?”
The updated rules now allow Veterans to receive both disability benefits and housing assistance. This change, combined with an improved process for landlords to accept vouchers, is expected to create thousands of housing opportunities across Los Angeles.
The initiative encourages landlords to accept housing vouchers by addressing bureaucratic delays and providing additional support. Efforts include increasing staffing levels, removing red tape, and expanding partnerships with property groups like the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles and the Greater Los Angeles Realtors.
Anne Russell, President of the Greater Los Angeles Realtors, expressed optimism about the reforms. “Many landlords want to help but have been deterred by the complexities. These changes will make it easier and faster for them to house Veterans,” she said.
Mayor Bass urges property owners to participate in the program, stressing the importance of community involvement. A citywide campaign is planned to encourage landlords to accept housing vouchers and provide more units for Veterans.
Los Angeles has already made strides in reducing Veteran homelessness. Last year’s homeless count reported a 23% decrease in the number of unhoused Veterans in the city. Officials believe these changes will drive that number even lower.
“For the third year in a row, we’ve housed more homeless Veterans in Los Angeles than any other city in the country,” McDonough said, adding that 97% of housed Veterans remain stable and sober.
Despite the progress, advocates and some Veterans remain cautious. Debate surrounds litigation over using the VA’s West L.A. campus for temporary shelter, as some Veterans voice frustration over missed opportunities to house hundreds immediately.
Despite these challenges, city officials remain optimistic about the initiative’s potential. “No one who has served their country, who has put their life on the line, should be left to live on our streets,” Bass said. “This is what is possible when we bring all levels of government, community groups, and businesses together.
Veterans in need of housing assistance are encouraged to call (310) 268-3350 or email HouseOurVets@lacity.org. Property owners interested in participating can also reach out for more information.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
