From the Office of Representative Nye

06/30/09

Washington, DC – Veterans on the brink of homelessness may soon have a new source of support, if a bipartisan bill introduced by Congressman Glenn Nye (D-VA) becomes law.

The Nye-Hunter Veterans Homelessness Prevention Act (H.R. 3073), introduced jointly by Congressman Glenn Nye and Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA) is a new approach to combating homelessness among veterans. Unlike traditional programs which primarily assist veterans who are already homeless or impoverished, the program would offer assistance to prevent veterans from losing their homes.

“With today’s tough economy, some veterans are just a paycheck or two from losing their homes. Instead of waiting for them to lose their homes before giving them a hand up, I want to prevent veterans from becoming homeless in the first place,” said Congressman Glenn Nye, who serves on the House Veterans Affairs Committee and the House Armed Services Committee. “This bill will help bridge the gap for veterans who are struggling and give them the chance to get back on their feet.”

Nye announced the bill last Saturday during a visit to VetsHouse, Inc. in Virginia Beach, a shelter that provides food, clothing, housing, and other assistance to homeless veterans in Hampton Roads.

The bill would authorize a program in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide short-term assistance to veterans in danger of losing their homes. Veterans who demonstrate that they are on the verge of losing their homes due to an inability to make mortgage or rent payments would be eligible to apply for support.

Payments would be made on behalf of the veteran to the landlord, mortgage company, or utility company for up to three months. Veterans would also be provided with support services to prevent future homelessness, which may include job training, mental health and substance abuse treatment.

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