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Veterans Grant

By KWGS News

Tulsa, OK –

The Community Service Council (CSC) has received notice that they are one of 85 grants awarded nationally by the Veterans Administration Support Services for Veterans' Families (SSVF)-and the only grantee in Oklahoma. The grant will fund the Barrier Removal and Residence Exchange for Veterans (BRRX-Vet) program, serving low income veteran families who are most in need of supportive services in Tulsa, Washington, Muskogee, Creek, Cherokee, Rogers, Okmulgee, Osage and Wagoner counties.

"These federal funds will help have a direct, positive effect on veterans and their families," said Rose Ewing, CSC Senior Planner and Director. "They fought for us, and now it's time for us to ensure their chance to have a quality life, to keep them from slipping into homelessness."

It's estimated that the BRRX-Vet program will serve up to 500 very low income veteran families who are currently residing in permanent housing but are at risk of becoming homeless, and those who are currently homeless. At least 25% of those that will receive services will have dependent children. The program is expected to be implemented this fall, and will employ more than 10 people.

CSC has a long history of serving low income families, including veterans and homeless populations. CSC hosts the 2-1-1 Helpline information and referral service, including the veterans program called "Help on the Homefront". In 2008, CSC assisted the Tulsa County District Court in partnership with the Veterans Administration to develop a specialized Veterans Treatment Court program. In 2010, CSC hosted "The Silent Wounds of War", the first statewide conference addressing the needs of returning veterans and their families.

"This program will incorporate the overarching principles of homelessness prevention while utilizing established rapid re-housing methods and a "Housing First" approach to effectively and efficiently address the needs of very low-income veteran families," said Ewing. "Housing Advocates will work to rapidly house or maintain housing for veterans according to their needs and preferences."

CSC is partnering with Mental Health Association of Tulsa, Volunteers of America, and Counseling and Recovery Services of Oklahoma, Inc. on the BBRX-Vet program.