Lujan Grisham Announces Federal Funding for Homeless Veterans
WASHINGTON, D.C. – (RealEstateRama) — Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham announced today that three New Mexico agencies will receive more than $2 million in federal grants through the Supportive Services for Veterans Families program. The program aims to prevent homeless among veteran families who earn very low incomes.
“This is money that helps our local nonprofits keep veterans and their families in sustainable housing,” said Rep. Lujan Grisham. “These services are essential for people who have served our country and deserve our support so they can lead healthy, productive lives in their communities.”
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico will receive more than $1.1 million to serve people in 26 counties; Mesilla Valley of Hope will receive almost $118,000 for people living in Doña Ana County; and New Mexico Veterans Integration Center will receive almost $803,000 for services provided in 12 counties.
Federal funding helped New Mexico Veterans Integration Center in Albuquerque serve more than 400 veterans last year. The Center provides homeless veterans and those experiencing a housing crisis, with quality employment training, housing and supportive services.
“The funding from the Supportive Services for Veterans Families program allows us to prevent homelessness or overcome homelessness in New Mexico, where we have very low income levels,” said Elinor Reiners, CEO of New Mexico Veterans Integration Center. “It is essential in keeping our veterans off the street and helping them to increase their income.”
The Veterans Administration, U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness recently reported that the number of homeless veterans in the country has decreased by about 50 percent since 2010.
