Supported Services Veteran Families 2019
Serving those who serve
On Monday, May 13, 2019, at the Cadillac National Guard Armory, NMCAA Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, along with representatives from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), Michigan Balance of State Continuum of Care, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Veteran Affairs Homeless Programs, and many veteran agencies throughout the area celebrated reaching “Functional Zero” or ending veteran homelessness in Manistee, Missaukee, and Wexford counties.
NMCAA SSVF staff developed a strong community plan, brought all stakeholders together, and provided direct services to Veterans to achieve this milestone. Veterans in Manistee, Wexford, and Missaukee Counties experiencing homelessness received outreach services and case management, in addition to public housing subsidies. These counties are only the second in Michigan to meet functional zero. Congratulations!
Client’s Story
Virga’s Story
Virga first presented as homeless in Wexford County in July of 2019. She was able to stay at the New Hope shelter for a couple of months before relocating to a mental health facility in the Upper Peninsula. After leaving the facility, she presented as homeless in Traverse City at the Goodwill Inn.
Virga struggles with her mental health, so it was vital for Goodwill Inn Outreach, NMCAA Housing Navigator and Northern Lakes Community Mental Health to work together as a team, with Virga, and help her enter a permanent housing facility of her choice to end her homelessness.
The team helped Virga view three separate AFC Homes, identify a payee as required by the AFC Home, assisted her with transportation to appointments from Traverse City to Cadillac, and helped with the required paperwork to gain entry into the home. Virga was able to take part in every decision during each step of this process. She is very excited and happy to finally have a place to call her own.
