From:                                                       SSVF

Sent:                                                         Thursday, April 13, 2023 12:21 PM

Subject:                                                   SSVF Special Program Update: Homelessness Prevention Tracking Changes

 

Dear Grantees,  

  

Due to different budget and spending timelines and the shift from prioritizing 60% of TFA towards Veteran families experiencing literal homelessness to prioritizing 60% of household enrollments towards Veteran families experiencing literal homelessness, the SSVF Program Office will waive the 60% TFA requirement until October 1, 2023.  Grantees should utilize this time to bring their awards into alignment with Rapid Rehousing (RRH) Prioritization.  Prior to October 1, 2023, the Program Office will provide further information and/or guidance regarding RRH Prioritization, including prioritization of enrollments and RRH waiver requirements for those who will not be exempt under the FY24 regulations.   

  

It is important to note that SSVF’s primary focus is placing Veteran families experiencing literal homelessness into permanent housing. This ensures priority is given to our most vulnerable Veterans.  SSVF is not an eviction prevention program. It is intended to prevent Veterans and their families from losing all housing and ending up in emergency shelter or on the street.  Despite this shift in spending requirements, grantees could be asked to demonstrate how they have continued to prioritize Veterans experiencing literal homelessness in their communities during this time period and should ensure they are continuing to focus local efforts in this way.  Some Veterans who apply for SSVF Homelessness Prevention (HP) assistance may be losing their housing, but they have another safe and appropriate housing option, including temporary options, where they can stay while they work to obtain their own housing. Or, an applicant may have another resource they can use to maintain current housing or obtain new housing. Such Veterans may  be enrolled under Stage 1 under Homelessness Prevention and provided Rapid Resolution services and supports that would help them avoid literal homelessness without the need for significant Temporary Financial Assistance. Per the 2021 HP Companion Guide, Veterans may be enrolled under Stage 1 if they indicate they anticipate becoming homeless in the next 30 days and grantees can use Rapid Resolution and services such as legal assistance even if the Veteran household does not qualify for or need more intensive financial supports. 

 

In September 2021 the SSVF Program Office released an updated Homelessness Prevention (HP) screening tool.  The goal of the updated HP Screening Tool is to document the screening process and eligibility for Veterans applying for homelessness prevention assistance and to help target limited financial resources most effectively.  Additionally, SSVF grantees should assist every Veteran seeking housing assistance with immediate, trauma-informed engagement, screening and basic housing problem-solving support and help to access other assistance to address housing needs within their network or community.  

 

Contact your Regional Coordinator if you have questions about this funding prioritization.  

 

Sincerely,

SSVF Program Office