Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF)

The most effective measures in preventing veteran homelessness are those that coordinate a comprehensive array of services to assist with housing, job placement, and counseling, as well as provide wraparound mental health, physical health, and substance use support.

Implemented in 2012, the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) federal grant program supports community-based organizations that prevent veterans and their families from becoming homeless. In 2013, the VA increased SSVF funding to $300 million. To maximize the chances of receiving SSVF funding, community-based organizations serving veterans had to build their capacity. NYHealth awarded a grant to the Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) to work directly with existing and new SSVF grantee applicants in New York State to increase their capacity to serve veterans and secure SSVF funding.

Under this grant, IVMF provided technical assistance to 12 New York State communities with the goal of establishing four new successful grantees by the end of two years. IVMF selected current SSVF grantees and held regional town hall meetings to provide basic information about the SSVF program and grant application process, and to share best practices and information with new grantee applicants. IVMF provided grant application assistance to prospective grantees through phone calls, teleconferences, and e-mentoring methods. It organized forums to build a sustainable SSVF community of practice that strengthened peer knowledge and resource exchange among new and established grantees. Finally, IVMF submitted semi-annual summary reports identifying proven and promising methods and outcomes related to preventing and addressing homelessness.

Read the interim report.