Affordable Housing and Support Services for Older Veterans

Disclaimer

Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.

Summary

Address affordable housing and access to support services for elderly Veterans by the establishment of services, utilization of existing programs, and collaboration between programs.

Justification

Older Veterans are in need of access to affordable housing that is tailored to their specific needs. Location of residence often determines access to other services. These barriers can be addressed through existing resources while also protecting the interests of this specific population.

Full Proposal

• Collaborate with housing authorities, non-profit groups, community development agencies, educational institutions to establish affordable housing and support services for older Veterans in New York State.
• Obtain support from government housing grants, private foundations, and collaborative efforts with the private sector.
• Create a system for monitoring the stability of housing, use of services, and the general well-being of Veterans.
• Develop affordable housing units and the construction of new affordable residences tailored to meet the needs of Veterans with features which enhance accessibility.
• Expand programs offering housing vouchers to aid Veterans in finding cost-effective housing options.
• Provide supportive services and case management to assist Veterans in navigating housing, healthcare, and social service systems.
• Improve transportation accessibility to appointments, grocery shopping and community events.
• Offer legal aid support on matters relating to housing rights, benefit claims, and estate planning.
• Partner the existing “Hidden Heroes State” and the existing Elizabeth Dole Foundation to open access to public-private partnerships which leverage respite care offerings and related services for caregivers of Veterans.
• Provide grants or low interest loans for home modifications like ramps, grab bars, and stairlifts to enhance accessibility.
• Assist in upgrading energy efficient measures to lower utility expenses for Veterans.
• Encourage initiatives which integrate Veterans into their communities through social gatherings, volunteering opportunities, and neighborhood watch programs.
• Create programs that bring Veterans and younger community members together for support and enrichment across generations, making offerings on high school and college campuses available as more students become caregivers with fewer resources or education on aging.
  • Offer “Bridge the Gap” Gerontology educational opportunities at high schools and on college campuses with in-class or assembly speaker sessions, especially during Veteran’s month.
  • Provide annual Wellness Seminars including students in health majors with a Gerontology 101 component.
  • Provide physical and mental health resources in a Benefits Check-up for students.
  • Create on-campus Veterans Centers.

MPA Council Commentary

This proposal is categorized as near-term. This proposal is currently being implemented at DVS. State agency partners can continue to work with supportive services to issue housing vouchers and evaluate potential collaborations for improved access to resources for older Veterans. Any additional resources or funding allocations would be subject to the annual budget process and available resources.