Transforming Lives: The Success of the VA Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System’s HUD-VASH Program

 This collaborative initiative, which combines HUD's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance with comprehensive VA case management and supportive services, has provided vital support to 553 Veterans, helping them secure stable, permanent housing.

Expansion and Support Network

As of March 1, 2025, the Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System received an additional 50 vouchers, increasing its capacity to assist Veterans in need. This growth complements the existing 503 vouchers received in 2024, allowing the program to expand its outreach and impact. The Fayetteville Metropolitan Housing Authority and the Eastern Carolina Human Services Agency play crucial roles in this initiative, receiving 40 and 10 vouchers respectively to support Veterans in the Cumberland, Duplin, and Onslow County areas.

Commitment to Comprehensive Care

“The HUD-VASH program fosters a sense of community and belonging that helps combat the isolation that many Veterans face,” Marri Fryar, Executive Medical Center Director for the Fayetteville NC VA Coastal Health Care System. "By connecting participants with essential healthcare services, both physical and mental, the program plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall well-being of Veterans. This access can significantly contribute to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life."

Notably, the VA Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System is ranked number one in the Veterans Integrated Services Networks (VISN), a testament to its effectiveness in addressing Veteran homelessness. The program's success is underscored by the impressive statistic that 93.84% of qualifying Veterans have been successfully housed, a figure that has garnered national recognition.

Emay Wessner, LCSW and HUD-VASH Coordinator, emphasizes the program's commitment to a Housing First approach, an evidence-based strategy that prioritizes rapid housing for those with high service needs. This model not only focuses on providing shelter but also facilitates access to essential medical, mental health, and social services, ensuring that Veterans can thrive in their new homes.

Wessner states, ”The success of the HUD-VASH program is deeply rooted in the dedication of its current and past team members, as well as the invaluable contributions of former HUD-VASH coordinators who have paved the way. Their hard work and commitment laid the foundation for a program that prioritizes not just providing housing, but offering comprehensive support to ensure Veterans can truly thrive. The collective effort, driven by both past and present team members, continues to foster an environment where Veterans receive the care, respect, and resources they need to overcome challenges and build a better future. This ongoing commitment is at the heart of the program’s lasting success.”

The Role of Dedicated Managers and Support Teams

At the heart of the HUD-VASH program are dedicated case managers who work closely with Veterans to coordinate care and services. These professionals help navigate the complexities of housing and health care, addressing mental health issues, physical disabilities, and employment challenges. The integration of peer support specialists further enriches the program, offering Veterans a sense of community and understanding as they transition into stable housing.

Collaborative partnerships are vital to the program's success. By working with Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), HUD-VASH can provide critical financial assistance, such as security deposits and initial rental support, helping Veterans secure housing more effectively. Additionally, partnerships with local organizations enable the program to offer resources beyond what the VA provides, ensuring that Veterans' diverse needs are met.

Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Future Success

Despite its successes, the HUD-VASH program operates in a landscape fraught with challenges. Many Veterans face mental health struggles, substance abuse issues, and physical disabilities that complicate their pathways to stable housing. The transient nature of some Veterans adds another layer of complexity, often leading to instability and housing abandonment. However, the program's comprehensive support framework is designed to address these barriers head-on.

For potential landlords interested in participating in the HUD-VASH program, the process is straightforward. By reaching out to local housing authorities, landlords can advertise their properties as accepting HUD-VASH vouchers, facilitating connections with Veterans in need of housing. The program ensures that all properties meet HUD inspection standards, creating a secure and supportive environment for tenants.

Register for Resources and Assistance

The VA Fayetteville Coastal Health System offers various resources for Veterans in need of assistance through its homeless program. The initial step is to contact the homeless program to assess eligibility. Interested Veterans may also visit the VA Fayetteville Coastal Walk-In Center, located on the first floor of Building 50 at 2300 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28301. Additionally, Veterans can access the HUD-VASH program through internal consults, whereby a provider from VA Fayetteville Coastal submits a homeless consult. The most common entry point, however, is the National Homeless Hotline, reachable at 1-877-4AID VET (877-424-3838), which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Ultimately, the HUD-VASH program in Fayetteville, NC, stands as a beacon of hope for Veterans experiencing homelessness. Through dedicated case management, community partnerships, and a steadfast commitment, the program has demonstrated its effectiveness in transforming lives. As it continues to grow and adapt, the HUD-VASH initiative remains a vital resource for homeless and at-risk Veterans, paving the way for a brighter and more stable future.