Surge event expands housing access for homeless Veterans

By Paxton Brutus, Pathways Intern, West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System

May 8, 2026

Community collaboration connects Veterans to housing and care

Homeless Veterans found support, stability and renewed hope during a recent surge event in Lake Park, where staff from the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System (WPBVAHCS) and community partners came together with one shared goal: connecting Veterans to housing, health care and benefits in one place.

The impact was immediate. A total of 29 Veterans received assistance during the event, reflecting expanded outreach and a coordinated effort to reach those most in need.

“The success of the surge event is reflective of amazing community collaboration between VA, Supportive Services for Veteran Families, the Public Housing Authority and community agencies,” said Jina Thalmann, Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 8 network homeless program coordinator. “When we work together, we can accomplish the mission.”