Current estimates place the number of homelessVeterans in North Carolina at greater than two thousand. In the Triangle alone there are over 600 homeless Veterans on any night. Fayetteville has over 500 on any given night. Today there are fewer than 100 beds in these areas dedicated to homeless Veterans.
Thousands more North Carolina Veterans struggle daily to remain self-reliant. Returning Veterans face numerous challenges and need urgent assistance today.
Veterans often return from oversees combat with multiple issues. Combat stress can lead to PTSD, which lead to substance abuse and difficulties readjusting to civilian life that in turn can destroy family relationships.
The most underserved segment of the homeless population are women and families. Due to restrictive policies that lead to separation of families, homeless mothers are typically reluctant to enter shelters even when space is available.
The men and women who have defended us, and ended up homeless, deserve to be treated as combat casualties. They deserve our respect and our care. We owe them a debt of gratitude. All Americans and fellow Veterans have a responsibility to care for at-risk and homeless Veterans.
