Los Angeles, CA — The city of Los Angeles has expanded the “House Our Vets” initiative, a program designed to provide permanent housing for veterans experiencing homelessness. First launched in 2023, the program has grown to serve over 1,200 veterans by mid-2026, combining federal, city, and nonprofit resources to create a coordinated pathway from homelessness to stability.
The initiative targets veterans with chronic homelessness, disabilities, or other vulnerabilities, offering permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, and rapid rehousing. Housing placements are coupled with comprehensive services, including healthcare access, mental health counseling, substance use treatment, employment training, and VA benefits navigation.
Nonprofit partners, including Veterans Village of San Diego and the United Veterans Council of Los Angeles, manage housing units and provide life skills training, transportation support, and case management. Outreach teams engage veterans in high-need areas, including Skid Row, South Los Angeles, and Hollywood, helping them navigate the application and placement process efficiently.
The pilot phase of the program successfully placed more than 300 veterans into housing within six months, demonstrating the effectiveness of combining rapid housing with wrap-around services. Veterans report improved stability, increased access to healthcare, and enhanced opportunities for employment and community engagement.
Funding for the initiative comes from federal VA grants, city allocations, and private donations, allowing the program to respond flexibly to emerging needs. Coordination with federal programs such as HUD-VASH and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) ensures that veterans not only receive housing but also the supportive services necessary to maintain long-term stability.
Officials note that the program particularly benefits vulnerable populations, including older veterans and female veterans, who often face additional barriers to housing and services. By integrating housing with support systems, Los Angeles is providing a comprehensive model that addresses both immediate and long-term challenges faced by unhoused veterans.
Key Highlights:
- “House Our Vets” aims to house over 1,200 veterans by mid-2026.
- Combines permanent, transitional, and rapid rehousing with wrap-around services.
- Partnerships with nonprofits provide case management, transportation, and life skills training.
- Early pilot phase successfully housed 300+ veterans in six months.
- Program targets high-need neighborhoods including Skid Row and South Los Angeles.
Through this initiative, Los Angeles continues to lead in coordinated efforts to end veteran homelessness, ensuring that housing is paired with essential services to promote long-term independence and well-being.
