Housing advocates have effectively eliminated chronic homelessness among Lynchburg-area veterans
Chronic homelessness among Lynchburg-area veterans has become so rare and brief it has been effectively eliminated, according to local housing advocates. The Hill City and the neighboring counties are the latest communities to achieve what is known as “functional zero” for veteran homelessness. Reaching functional zero means the number of veterans experiencing homelessness is less than the number of veterans a community has proven it can house in a month, which in Lynchburg is three veterans.
Lynchburg reaches “functional zero” level of homeless veterans
The City of Lynchburg hit a major milestone. Lynchburg and the surrounding four counties have achieved what’s called “functional zero” veteran homelessness. That means the Central Virginia Continuum of Care has met a set of criteria by the nonprofit Community Solutions, including having fewer veterans experiencing homelessness than the number that can be routinely housed within a month. … Sarah Quarantotto, Executive Director, Miriam’s House, announced the news of Lynchburg’s achievement. “We are creating a reality in Lynchburg where homelessness is neither inevitable or inescapable and does not have to become a way of life for those who are experiencing it.”
Lynchburg area achieves functional zero for homeless veterans
The City of Lynchburg and surrounding counties have reached a landmark in helping veterans. Tuesday, the city and other organizations announced the area has reached functional zero for veteran homelessness. That standard means fewer veterans are experiencing homelessness than can be housed. The area had as many as 20 homeless veterans in January of last year, but has since brought that number down to one. “They’re our family members, our coworkers, our neighbors, and ensuring they have a safe place to call home is one of the ways we can honor their service,” said Sarah Quarantotto, Miriam’s House executive director.
Lynchburg reaches functional zero for veteran homelessness
Advocates for people experiencing homelessness in Lynchburg are proud to say the city is at a functional zero for homeless veterans. That means more veterans are finding permanent housing after living on the streets for years. Last year, Miriam’s House, an advocate group for homeless people, had 20 veterans in their case load. As of Tuesday, that number has dropped to one. Adam Holmes is one of those people living in a new home. “I think every veteran would agree having that functional zero is super important because they know they have a place to go now,” Holmes said.
