Tucson's "Hope in the Park" Provides Vital Resources for Unsheltered Veterans
The Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) joined forces with local organizations at Tucson's bi-annual "Hope in the Park" resource fair to support the city's unsheltered population, including Veterans in need.
Staff from the HUD-VASH program and the eligibility and enrollment office were present to assist Veterans, continuing SAVAHCS's ongoing efforts to reach out to the homeless community. The VA conducts weekly patrols in areas with unsheltered populations, seeking out Veterans who may need assistance.
Visitor Adriana Aguilar said that her Veteran friend would benefit from the information. “I feel like any type of information is good information.”
HUD-VASH staff distributed information about VA services, including details on the walk-in clinic, how to start services, and the availability of showers, clothing, and laundry facilities.
Jennifer Premer, a HUD-VASH social worker, emphasized the impact of their outreach. "Veteran or not, the people we encounter are appreciative and grateful. They're thankful to know somebody's thinking about them, acknowledging that they're not invisible," she said.
The event, organized by Tucson Homeless Connect, brought together 60 service providers offering various resources. Britni Brown, the organization's president, explained their grassroots approach: "The way that we really get the word out is boots on the ground. We go out to areas to pass out flyers, and promotion from our community providers is incredibly helpful."
"Hope in the Park," now in its 16th year, has expanded its offerings to include services such as free haircuts provided by Empire Beauty School.
This collaborative effort between SAVAHCS, local charities, and the City of Tucson's Housing First Program demonstrates a community-wide commitment to addressing homelessness and supporting Veterans in need.