Nearly 33,000 veterans experienced homelessness in 2024. While this number is large, it has been decreasing in recent years due to the work of groups like the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, big VA workforce cuts – and veterans being let go from other government jobs – may put progress in jeopardy. You can help provide some assistance for those in need.

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As part of broad job cuts currently being applied across the federal government, the VA is set to lose 80,000 workers. These employees help the VA provide the services it offers, including health care, pensions, and education benefits. The agency also helps with short- and long-term housing options.

The VA works with federal, state, and local organizations to get at-risk veterans and those already experiencing homelessness into stable housing. At the end of 2024, more than 88,000 formerly homeless veterans were under lease through the Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program, an all-time high.

Job cuts could get in the way of these and other services, as a 2024 report from the VA Office of Inspector General found that 137 of 139 VA health centers surveyed reported a severe staffing shortage in at least one area.

One in four VA employees is a veteran themselves. Veterans make up about 30% of the overall federal workforce, as well, and about half of them live with a disability. That means, in addition to uncertainty with VA services, thousands of veterans are facing job loss, as an effort to amend the latest government funding package to include federal job protections for veterans failed.

Along with our partner Greater Good Charities, we have long worked to provide essentials for veterans experiencing homelessness, through a relationship with the VA. Good Packs include items like toiletries, a reusable water bottle, clothes, and a blanket.

Since most homeless shelters won’t allow pets, leaving many people to choose between their pet and a roof over their head, pet packs are also distributed. Those include a collapsible bowl, a slip lead leash, a toy, and food and treats.

With cuts at the VA, and many veterans losing their jobs throughout the government, the need for this kind of assistance may soon rise. If you’d like to provide a Good Pack or a Pet Pack to a veteran in need, click below!