Needs of Veterans Transitioning out of Homelessness

With the current national initiative to end veteran homeless by the end of 2015, there are growing numbers of homeless veterans moving into housing. This study sought to explore their needs and experiences during their transition into housing. Data collected for this study consisted of six semi-structured interviews with social workers and case managers working with homeless veterans in housing programs. Four dominant themes were identified as (1) the benefit of having a case manager for support and guidance; (2) housing provides a stable base to work on goals and plan for the future; (3) substance use, mental health, and visitors are barriers to maintaining housing; and (4) medical health improves after getting housing. Three subthemes that emerged from the data include: (1) the impact of pride on the ability to ask for help; (2) the impacts of the culture of homelessness; and (3) mental and chemical health improvements after housing vary depending on the person, the situation, and the length of homelessness. The results from this study suggest that veterans’ needs do not end when they get into housing, but that ongoing support and services are needed in order for them to be successful in the transition and in maintaining their housing. The results support implications for social workers to build and maintain ongoing trusting relationships with veterans to facilitate the change process during their transition into housing