Vet homelessness a topic at conference

During its annual Washington Conference in March, The American Legion will host a roundtable discussion focused on the topic of reducing veterans homelessness. Representatives from federal agencies, homeless service providers, faith-based organizations and other institutions will meet at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington on March 18 from 10 a.m. to noon to discuss the issue, which has only worsened since the war on terror began.

Estimations and studies have shown veterans comprise a little more than one-fifth of the nation’s homeless population, with 107,000 of them on the street any given night. Recently, a significant rise has been recorded in homelessness for veterans with children, particularly women veterans – a demographic that is the fastest growing among the homeless population. The American Legion and the other organizations and agencies with representation at the roundtable discussion will look to find ways to address and quell these issues, which worsen as the conflicts overseas prolong.

The public is invited to attend. Individuals or organizations who wish to be on hand for the discussion should e-mail Legion Economic Division Deputy Director Mark Walker to arrange an RSVP.