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America’s veterans offered their service to us. This Veterans Day, let’s give something back to them.
An estimated 40,000 veterans go homeless on any given night in the U.S., according to a report the National Alliance to End Homelessness released last year. That number doesn’t include the 1.4 million vets who are considered at risk of homelessness, according to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.
You can help some of our country’s heroes get back on their feet by volunteering, donating or even hiring a military vet. Check out some specific ways to help:
Volunteer
Mentors, program assistance, and counselors or legal aids can significantly help veterans.
Sign up through the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Voluntary Service page to volunteer or donate to VA medical centers and hospitals in your area. You can also check out the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans’ website to find a local organization near you.
Donate
Shelters are always in need of personal care items and clothing, especially underwear, socks and T-shirts.
To locate a service organization near you, check out the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans’ website, which provides an interactive map of local shelters and community centers, or call 1-800-VET-HELP.
If you have any doubts about a charity’s performance, websites like Charity Watch and Charity Navigator aim to provide ratings on organizations’ contributions and expenses.
Hire
There are a number of organizations out there that help match employers with qualified veterans.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s website is one such resource, and the nonprofit Hire Heroes USA offers opportunities for do-gooders to donate, volunteer or host a fundraiser. The website Feds Hire Vets also helps provide federal employment information for veterans, transitioning service members, their families and employers.
Are you a veteran in need of help?
Veterans who are homeless or feel they are at imminent risk of becoming homeless can contact either their local VA medical center or local community resource and referral center. Information is available on the VA’s website or by calling 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838).
