Our essential staff is on the frontlines as Swords expands capacity to meet the needs of our community. We ensure health and safety of at-risk veterans.
As we continue to respond to the challenges of COVID-19, it is critically important to keep the momentum of getting veterans housed. For veterans who remain unsheltered, many are among the most vulnerable to serious health complications from disease. The majority are seniors (55%), disabled (56%), extremely low-income (72%), and aged beyond their years, often due to service-related injuries and time on the streets.
Our mission to end veteran homelessness is more urgent than ever to both our community and the veterans we serve. We have continued to move these veterans off the streets and into housing in a rapid and safe fashion.
Construction was completed on our latest supportive housing program, The Edwin M. Lee Apartments on February. Before and after the Shelter in Place order, dedicated staff were working to move 62 formerly homeless veterans and 56 low-income families into the new building. These veterans and families now have a home to safely Shelter in Place during COVID-19 and well beyond.
“Understandably, veterans can be wary and not trust us immediately – especially if they are women or struggling with mental health conditions. This isn’t only about getting veterans housed; we’re also establishing relationships with them out where they feel the safest – which may be in their tent or on a bench they frequent. It’s worth it to come out here determined to make a connection.” - Tonya Greenlee, Swords’ Outreach
From the streets of San Francisco to behind the barber chair, Zack’s story is one of resilience, community, and second chances – a reminder that with the right support, every veteran has the power to rebuild.
Veterans’ stories, updates, and impact, delivered to you each month.
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