From: SSVF

Sent: Friday, May 8, 2020 10:47 AM

Subject: SSVF Program Update Friday May 8th, 2020

Attachments: vha-10-3203-fill Media Release blank.pdf

Topics:

1. REGISTER NOW: SSVF National Webinar – Coordinating Across Federal Partners During COVID-19 May 14, 2020, at 2:00 EST

2. ATTENTION: SSVF Grantee Recognition

3. ATTENTION: SSVF Program Office Request for SSVF Success Stories

Topic: Coordinating Across Federal Partners During the COVID-19 Crisis

The SSVF Program Office and its partners recognize the need for increased and ongoing coordination between VA, HUD, and other programs to reach and serve as many at-risk Veterans as possible in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This webinar will provide an overview of the broader federal response to COVID-19 on people experiencing or at-risk of homelessness, including how CARES Act funding and support is being implemented and prioritized across VA and HUD and USICH's coordinating role in supporting communities during this public health crisis. The discussion will also focus on how SSVF Grantees and their community and VA partners can ensure Veterans have rapid access to SSVF services and linkages to permanent housing. Please register for the webinar using the link below:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2309807155230159373

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

ATTENTION: SSVF Grantee Recognition

Last week three VA medical centers sent letters to the SSVF Program Office expressing their appreciation for their SSVF grantee partners. We want to recognize these SSVF grantees and VAMCs with the following shout outs!

Berkey Food and Housing Project was recognized by staff at VA Northern California Health Care System for "seamless collaboration" in helping the VA team navigate through a complex housing search and placement process to assist a Veteran with a HUD-VASH voucher. The two teams worked together to support the Veteran with some complicated issues and found a way to view rental properties safely; their hard work allowed the Veteran to move into his HUD-VASH unit quickly.

Catholic Charities and Salvation Army in Wichita, KS, were described as "phenomenal" by the Robert J. Dole VAMC. Catholic Charities and Salvation Army have continued outreach efforts during the COVID-19 crisis and have provided hotels to Veterans to help them avoid living in shelters, streets, or other unsafe conditions. This resource was severely needed and considered lifesaving to Veterans in these times of changing circumstances.

Goodwill Industries received recognition from the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane, WA. The VA took the time to describe how Goodwill Industries was respectful and thoughtful while collaborating with their team on a challenging case. The VA team was especially grateful to the SSVF grantee for using their flexibility to problem-solve a transportation issue.

Attention: SSVF Program Office Request for SSVF Success Stories

SSVF Program Office is seeking Success Stories from grantees for the FY19 Annual Report. The Annual Report is a great platform for grantees to share the wonderful work of their agencies and communities. When sending story ideas, please include the following information:

• Case manager's name, telephone number, and email address

• Veteran’s name, telephone number, and email address

• Veteran’s demographic information (age, gender, branch of service, etc.)

• Veteran’s location (city and state)

• Closest VAMC to the Veteran

• Overview of Veteran’s journey from homelessness to stable housing (one-page maximum)

Attached, you will find the Release of Information as it related to VA Media Platforms for Grantee use.

Thank you,

SSVF Program Office