How You Can Help Veterans Make it Home for the Holidays

By Shawn Liu, National Homeless Program Manager, Homeless Programs Office

December 9, 2025

This Holiday Season, VA is doubling down on its commitment to reducing Veteran homelessness through a new initiative called “Home for the Holidays: Working to ensure our homeless Veterans have a home this holiday season and beyond.”

From November 1, 2025, through January 30, 2026, we’re hosting surge events at every VA in America. Our goal? Move at least 6,000 unsheltered Veterans to interim or permanent housing within 3 months.

VA is calling on faith groups to partner with their local VA to support these efforts by hosting move-in kit and outreach kit drives.

What are Veteran homeless outreach kits?

Veteran Homeless Outreach Kits are designed to provide immediate, practical support and connect homeless Veterans with essential services.

What is typically included in a Veteran homeless outreach kit?

Necessities

Information and Resources

Non-perishable food items (e.g., protein bars, canned goods with pull tabs) Bottled water Socks and underwear Gloves, hats, and scarves Blankets or emergency thermal blankets Hygiene kits (e.g., toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, razors) Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes First aid supplies (e.g., band-aids, antiseptic wipes)

VA contact cards (e.g., 877-424-3838) Brochures or flyers about: Local VA medical center services Housing assistance programs (e.g., HUD-VASH) Employment services Legal aid resources Mental health and substance use support Transportation options Wallet cards with emergency contacts and shelter options Other helpful items Flashlights with batteries Ponchos or rain gear Reusable tote bags or backpacks Bus passes or transportation vouchers Notebooks and pens Phone charging banks

What is typically included in a move-in kit?

Living Room / Dining Room Items	Kitchen Items	Bedroom Items (Full or Queen)	Bath Items
Kitchen table Chairs Sofa Side tables TV stand	Pot and skillet with lids Dishware (4-8 place settings) Drinkware (8 glasses) Flatware (4-8 place settings) Serving utensil set Measuring cups and spoons Oven pan (9×13) and/or cookie sheet Dishcloths Kitchen trash can and bags	Sheet set Comforter Blanket Pillows Laundry basket	Bath towels (4) Hand towels (4) Washcloths (4) Shower curtain, liner, and rings Soap dish and toothbrush holder Bathroom rug set

Learn more

To learn more about donating outreach and move-in essentials, contact your local VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement office at  cdceportal.va.gov/donate_at_facility/