VA demonstrates continued progress in addressing Veteran homelessness

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

May 5, 2026

Veterans experiencing homelessness, or at risk of housing instability, often face challenges that require different types of support depending on their circumstances. Some need help finding housing quickly. Others require resources to help them stay housed or to reconnect with care, employment, or their community.

Across the country, VA and its partners are working to help Veterans overcome homelessness—meeting them where they are and connecting them to the services they’ve earned. Fiscal year (FY) 2025 data reflects meaningful progress across VA’s efforts to prevent and end Veteran homelessness.

More Veterans are finding—and keeping—permanent housing

Nationwide, local VA programs and partners are reaching more Veterans experiencing homelessness and connecting them to housing and other resources. In FY25, 51,936 Veterans were permanently housed as part of VA’s homelessness goals. Notably, 96.2% of those Veterans remained in housing at the end of the fiscal year—reflecting strong housing retention and demonstrating promise for long-term stability.

For many Veterans, stable housing provides an essential foundation for addressing other needs. In FY25, 13,450 Veterans exiting VA homeless programs or services were connected to employment, a key element that supports financial independence and helps Veterans overcome or avoid homelessness. These outcomes reflect VA’s wraparound approach, which combines housing assistance with a range of supportive services, including health care, education, and employment assistance.

Early support is helping prevent homelessness and reduce risk

Progress isn’t only measured by how many Veterans exit homelessness—but also by how many never experience it. In FY25, 155,066 Veterans and their family members were served through Supportive Services for Veteran Families—the highest number ever served by the program in a single year.

Some Veterans face more complex challenges that increase their risk of housing instability. Factors like employment gaps, medical needs, or involvement with the criminal justice system can make it harder for Veterans to access or maintain stable housing. In FY25, nearly 61,360 justice-involved Veterans were served through the Veterans Justice Outreach and Health Care for Re-entry Veterans programs. By reaching Veterans at higher risk of homelessness during key transition points, these programs can help prevent homelessness before it occurs.

Community partnerships are expanding VA’s reach and impact

Effectively reaching homeless Veterans also depends on strong partnerships. VA works closely with community organizations, local government agencies, landlords, and service providers to reach more Veterans across the country, including those who may not otherwise engage with VA resources.

In FY25, VA and its partners hosted 248 Homeless Veteran Stand Down events, connecting more than 47,875 Veterans with food, clothing, health screenings, and referrals for housing, health care, and other essential services. These community-based efforts translate VA’s national goals and priorities into direct support for Veterans experiencing homelessness at the local level.

VA remains committed to reaching every Veteran in need

While the data shows continued progress, the work is far from finished. VA will continue to build on what works—reaching homeless Veterans earlier, connecting them to housing faster, and providing the support needed to ensure every Veteran has a safe and stable place to call home.

To learn more about VA’s work to prevent Veteran homelessness and explore additional highlights from FY25, view the full 2025 State of Veteran Homelessness infographic.