About 35 veterans experiencing homelessness in Snohomish, Skagit and Island counties will receive permanent housing through a grant program that Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, has long supported. The housing vouchers, including 12 for Snohomish County, 7 for Skagit County, and 14 for Island County, are awarded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program (HUD-VASH).

These vouchers come on top of 187 already in place in Snohomish County, and 25 in place in Skagit County. These will be the first HUD-VASH vouchers in Island County.

“Unfortunately many veterans struggle with homelessness, which is why I am a strong supporter of the HUD-VASH program. Along with addressing housing, the program also matches veterans with other support and services they may need. These grants will help more of our local veterans get permanent housing and on the path to independence,” Larsen said.

The Housing Authority of Snohomish County will receive $92,910; the Housing Authority of Skagit County will receive $41,236; and the Housing Authority of Island County will receive $98,216.

Eligible veterans are identified through Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMC) based on the duration of homelessness and their need for longer term intensive support. The HUD-VASH program includes rental assistance and comprehensive case management through the VAMC. Veterans who participate in the HUD-VASH program rent privately owned housing and contribute no more than 30 percent of their own income toward rent.

Earlier this year Larsen signed a letter of support for full funding of the HUD-VASH program in 2016.

More information about the grant awards is available here.

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