Syracuse VA Medical Center Completes Successful Homeless Outreach Surge Across Oswego and Cayuga Counties
The Syracuse VA Medical Center Homeless Team conducted a successful and wide-reaching Surge Event on Wednesday, August 6, bringing critical resources and support directly to Veterans experiencing homelessness in Oswego and Cayuga Counties.
Over the course of the day-long initiative, 12 outreach teams—made up of 21 VA staff members, including the Mental Health Associate Chief of Staff (ACOS), and 12 Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) case managers—traveled a combined 1,154 miles, making 195 stops across the region. Teams visited four meal sites and distributed grab-n-go bags packed with essential supplies. Thanks to the generosity of the local Elks Club, food and water donations further strengthened the assistance available to underserved Veterans.
During the surge, outreach teams made contact with six non-Veterans, including two individuals living unsheltered, one in unstable housing, and one woman residing in her car. Two Veterans were also located—one of whom was stably housed, while the other was actively working with a community provider. Teams also came across two vacant encampments, where they left behind essential supplies for those returning.
This coordinated effort underscores the Syracuse VA’s mission to end Veteran homelessness through proactive engagement and strong community partnerships. With the help of local organizations, such as the Elks Club and SSVF providers, the Homeless Team continues to ensure no Veteran is left behind