Frequently Asked Questions

Veterans Inc. is a private nonprofit organization which provides a wide array of programs and supportive services to veterans, servicemembers, and their families. It is the largest one-stop veterans housing, outreach, and supportive services program in New England.

A major focus of the organization is eradicating homelessness among veterans of the U.S. military. As a result of providing shelter and addressing the triggers of homelessness (lack of job skills, PTSD, substance use, etc.), Veterans Inc. ultimately, in many cases, saves lives.

We operate according to the philosophy that veterans have earned the respect and gratitude of our nation, and in return, Veterans Inc. shall provide them with whatever services are needed. In other words: They were there when we needed them. We must be there now that they need us. For more information on our programs and services, please visit the Services section.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is working diligently to take care of homeless veterans, but the scope of the problem is so vast that no one agency can do it alone. Eradicating homelessness among veterans requires partnerships between a myriad of government and private entities. Think of it like the American Cancer Society or the American Lung Association. While the government funds a considerable amount of medical research, those organizations have existed for years because of the general public’s desire to see even more done in the fight against these deadly diseases. In our case, the fight is against homelessness and the despair, PTSD, substance use, and other factors that contribute to homelessness. If you agree that veterans facing these life-threatening challenges – many of which are the result of serving in combat – deserve more help than the government can provide, we ask you to consider making a donation to Veterans Inc.

In a 2007 study, the National Alliance to End Homelessness reported that homeless veterans face different challenges than the general population. Prolonged separation from traditional supports such as family and close friends, combined with highly stressful training and occupational demands, can affect veterans’ personalities, self-esteem, and ability to communicate. Veterans are also often faced with non-transferability of skills to civilian jobs. Other contributing factors include challenges that existed prior to military service, such as economic hardship, and factors developed as a result of military service, such as combat-related mental and physical health problems.

Any veteran of the United States military is eligible. Homeless veterans with ties to the region where a Veterans Inc. facility is located are given priority for admission to those facilities. All of our housing is drug- and alcohol-free. For admission and referral information, please call us 24 hours a day at (800) 482-2565.

If the person was on active duty at some point, he or she is considered a veteran of the U.S. military and is eligible. In addition, Veterans Inc. tries to help all members of the National Guard and Reserves if needed, regardless of their mobilization status.

He or she is assigned a Case Manager. Together, they develop an Individual Treatment Plan detailing the goals and actions that will lead to self-sufficiency.

To begin with, each veteran is given up to 30 days emergency shelter. Those who require more support can remain in the shelter for up to two years, as long as they remain alcohol- and drug-free. From there, many veterans move to transitional housing, where they can stay for up to two years as well. Occasionally, a veteran requires long-term support, in which case “permanent” housing is provided until the veteran is independent enough to live on his or her own.

There are several ways you can make a difference in the lives of veterans in need. To learn more visit Ways you can help.