To help end veteran homelessness, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded $153,053 to provide a permanent home to an estimated 35 veterans experiencing homelessness in Oklahoma. 

The rental assistance is provided through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program, which combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.

HUD-VASH reduces veteran homelessness because it provides funding for both the housing and supportive services that are essential for ending homelessness for veterans, many of whom are living in unsheltered locations. These vouchers are critical tools in helping communities effectively end homelessness among veterans.

“It’s our duty and responsibility to support the men and women who gave so much for our country,” said HUD Secretary Ben Carson. “The housing vouchers awarded today ensures homeless veterans nationwide have access to affordable housing and the critical supportive services from the VA. It’s an honor to work with our dedicated partners on the ground who make certain every veteran has a place to call home.”

Since 2008, more than 93,000 vouchers have been awarded and approximately 150,000 homeless veterans have been served through the HUD-VASH program. More than 600 PHAs administer the HUD-VASH program, and this most recent award includes 22 additional PHAs, increasing HUD-VASH coverage to many communities.

Decisions are based on a variety of factors, most importantly the duration of homelessness and the need for longer term, more intensive support in obtaining and maintaining permanent housing.

Veterans participating in the HUD-VASH program rent privately owned housing and generally contribute no more than 30 percent of their income toward rent.