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HomeNewsLocal governmentCOVID-19 Assistance Available Through CARES Act for Homeless Veterans

COVID-19 Assistance Available Through CARES Act for Homeless Veterans

Veterans Affairs Caribbean Healthcare System. (caribbean.va.gov)
Veterans Affairs Caribbean Healthcare System. (caribbean.va.gov)

The Methodist Training and Outreach Center Inc. (MTOC) has been awarded additional funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program to serve homeless veterans through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

This funding is to be used to immediately meet the needs of homeless veterans or those veterans who may be facing homelessness through the loss of current housing.

The Methodist Training and Outreach Center, in conjunction with the VA, is currently trying to identify more veterans who may need this assistance. Veterans Affairs recognizes the immediate need to serve homeless veterans and slow the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The CARES Act funding allows the outreach center to expand on services that are already available through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program.

The goal of the CARES Act Supportive Services for Veteran Families funding is to meet the immediate needs of homeless veterans and reduce the exposure of vulnerable populations, as defined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), who may be at greater risk from contracting the COVID-19 virus. The goal of the grant is to prevent and end homelessness among low-income veterans by promoting housing stability. The grant funds are being used to provide supportive services to low-income veterans living in or transitioning to permanent housing.

Veterans are asked to first reach out to the VI Office of Veterans Affairs to verify eligibility by calling 774-8387 or 773-8387 or by sending an email tominfo_va@va.vi.gov. To continue safeguarding the lives of veterans, their families and the staff of the V.I. Office of Veterans Affairs, please call before coming to the office. That call may alleviate an office visit.

The Supportive Services Program can assist eligible veterans on St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John.

For more information on eligibility or to apply for the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program, call Methodist Training and Outreach Center at 714-7782, 713-0555 or the Office of Veterans Affairs at 774-8387 or 773-8387.

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