VA Hosts Landlord Fair to Strengthen Housing Opportunities for Homeless Veterans
The Columbia VA Health Care System brought together local landlords, housing authorities, and community partners Tuesday for a Landlord Fair aimed at expanding housing opportunities for Veterans experiencing homelessness.
The event, hosted by the VA’s HUD-VASH program, created a collaborative space for property owners and service providers to network, share resources, and learn about the support systems available to both landlords and the Veterans they house.
Amanda Bonner, HUD-VASH supervisor, said the goal was clear: “We wanted to introduce our program to new landlords and show them how they can be part of the solution in ending Veteran homelessness. We’re here to break the stigma and show that these Veterans have support from day one.”
The HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development–Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing) program helps Veterans transition from homelessness to permanent housing through intensive case management and access to 748 HUD-issued housing choice vouchers. The program currently serves over 500 Veterans annually in Columbia and surrounding areas.
Bonner noted that the local housing market poses unique challenges. “Being in a college town, the demand drives prices up, which makes affordable housing harder to find for low-income Veterans,” she said. “That’s why landlord engagement is so vital.”
Representatives from Transitions Homeless Center also attended, underscoring the value of face-to-face networking. “We work with clients through every stage—from unsheltered to stable housing,” said Alycia Roach, a housing specialist with Transitions. “Events like this allow us to build real relationships with landlords and VA staff, not just through emails or phone calls. It closes the loop and strengthens the collaboration.”
Attendees had the opportunity to meet HUD-VASH social workers, learn about housing support programs like Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), and understand how VA case management helps Veterans stay successfully housed. According to Bonner, 92% of HUD-VASH Veterans are currently in permanent housing, with about 30 still seeking units.
For landlords hesitant to participate, Bonner offered reassurance: “We’re not just handing Veterans a voucher and walking away. Our team stays involved. We partner with landlords, provide direct contacts, and connect Veterans with employment, health care, and utility assistance to support long-term stability.”
The event also helped community partners better align their efforts. “Landlords shared their leasing requirements, which helps us prepare our clients more effectively,” said Kimberly Rainey of Transitions. “It was a productive, full-circle experience.”
Bonner encouraged more property owners to consider partnering with the HUD-VASH program. “When landlords open their doors, they’re restoring dignity and providing hope. They’re helping us end Veteran homelessness—one lease at a time.”
For more information about what’s going on at the Veterans medical center, clinic locations and other services available to Veterans in and around Columbia, visit the website https://www.va.gov/columbia-south-carolina-health-care/ and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, keyword: VAColumbiaSC.