Honoring our Veterans

Ensuring that every veteran in America has access to the care and support they need is not just a promise, but a moral obligation. A key component of this commitment is addressing the issue of veteran homelessness. No veteran who has served our country should find themselves without a home, three square meals a day, and access to the best health care resources available. We must pursue – with urgency – practical solutions that focus on comprehensive support and accountability to ensure that all veterans can transition smoothly back into civilian life and live with dignity and security.

First and foremost, I believe we must guarantee that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) fulfills its mission to provide timely and quality care. This includes rigorous oversight and accountability to ensure that resources are being used effectively and that veterans have access to community care options as mandated by the VA MISSION Act. Streamlining access to these options and reducing bureaucratic barriers will empower veterans to choose the best care available to them. Additionally, modernizing VA services is crucial. I propose the creation of an independent assessment and expert commission to recommend reforms that promote veteran independence and long-term rehabilitation. This will address the inefficiencies in the transition and benefits process, making it more effective and responsive to the needs of our veterans. Like most things in terms of government services, anything an American needs should be available via an app.

Furthermore, I support initiatives that provide stable housing for veterans. This includes expanding funding for transitional housing programs, increasing access to affordable housing, and offering robust support services to prevent homelessness. By ensuring that every veteran has a place to call home, we not only honor their service but also strengthen our communities.

In addition to housing and healthcare, my policies aim to ensure economic opportunities for veterans. This involves enhancing job training programs, providing educational benefits, and supporting veteran-owned businesses. By investing in the economic potential of our veterans, we can help them build successful post-service lives.

My commitment to veterans is clear: we must provide the care, support, and opportunities they deserve. By implementing these progressive and practical solutions, I will ensure that no veteran is left behind and that every veteran has the chance to thrive.

Addressing Homelessness

My policy on homelessness is rooted in a comprehensive approach that prioritizes dignity, support, and sustainable solutions for all, with a special focus on our veterans (absolutely NO ONE who wore the uniform of this country should ever find themselves homeless). Central to this vision is the expansion of affordable housing—a critical step towards ensuring that everyone, particularly those who have served our country, has access to safe and stable living conditions. Recognizing that homelessness is often a symptom of broader issues, my policy also emphasizes the importance of robust federal aid programs aimed at providing financial stability for individuals and families during temporary crises, preventing homelessness before it occurs.

Further, leveraging the VA as a central coordinating agency, we aim to fast-track homeless veterans into permanent housing, supplemented by the HUD-VASH program’s resources. Beyond housing, I’m committed to making sure we are offering comprehensive support services, including mental health care, job training, and reintegration programs, to address the root causes of homelessness. This policy is about more than just providing shelter; it’s about creating pathways to self-sufficiency and improved quality of life for everyone in need.

By focusing on building more affordable housing, enhancing federal aid for those in temporary financial crises, and providing holistic support services, we can tackle homelessness from multiple angles. This isn’t just a policy—it’s a pledge to uphold the values of community, compassion, and respect, ensuring no one, especially our veterans, is left without the support they deserve and a place to call home.