DATE:
April 22, 2025
19
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT:
Title
ENDING VETERAN HOMELESSNESS (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
Homelessness remains a critical issue in the County of San Diego, particularly among the veteran population. As one of the largest military communities in the United States, San Diego is home to over 240,000 veterans who have made significant sacrifices in service to our country. However, many face substantial challenges during their transition from active duty to civilian life, including securing stable employment, accessing healthcare, and finding affordable housing in an increasingly competitive market.
The transition to civilian life often results in the loss of the support structures that veterans relied on during their active-duty military service. Combined with the region's rising housing costs, this leaves veterans vulnerable to homelessness.
According to a 2023 study by the Journal of American Medical Association psychiatry, veterans are more likely to suffer from mental health challenges and substance use disorders than the general population. Addressing veteran homelessness is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic priority for the County.
The County has made important strides in recent years to address homelessness, with targeted initiatives specifically focused on reaching functional zero for veteran homelessness. These efforts have yielded promising results, including increased housing placements, improved coordination with service providers, and expanded access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment. However, the scale and urgency of the issue demands a more streamlined, collaborative, and scalable response to accelerate progress and ensure that no veteran is left behind.
By creating a by-name list and targeting landlords via social media, the County will leverage data-driven, evidence-based strategies to expedite access to stable housing and treatment to end veteran homelessness regio...
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