Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard
Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard, founded in 1996 by Sidney Singer, provides transitional housing, resource support, and workforce development for veterans in Pittsburgh, aiming to combat veteran homelessness.
Founding of Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard
Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard was founded in 1996 by Sidney Singer, a member of the Jewish War Veterans, Post 718. The organization's inception was driven by a mission to support veterans, particularly those dealing with homelessness and related challenges. Since its founding, Veterans Place has been dedicated to offering a range of services that address the immediate and long-term needs of veterans in the Pittsburgh area.
Transitional Housing Program
Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard operates a Transitional Housing program that can accommodate up to 48 veterans. This program provides a stable and supportive environment that helps veterans transition from homelessness to independent living. The facilities are designed to offer a sense of community while allowing veterans to access various support services that promote recovery and self-sufficiency.
Veterans Resource Center Services
The Veterans Resource Center at Veterans Place offers essential resources such as transportation, food, clothing, and financial assistance. This center is pivotal in addressing the immediate needs of veterans and ensuring they have access to fundamental resources that support their day-to-day living. The center operates as a hub for veterans seeking assistance in navigating various social services available to them.
Workforce Development Services for Veterans
Veterans Place provides comprehensive Workforce Development services aimed at supporting veterans in securing and maintaining employment. These services include employment support and job development initiatives designed to equip veterans with the necessary skills and opportunities to thrive in the workforce. The program helps veterans connect with potential employers and provides ongoing support to ensure job retention.
Fundraising and Community Events
Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard hosts an annual Cornhole Tournament as a major fundraising event. The tournament not only helps raise much-needed funds for the organization but also fosters community engagement and awareness around veteran issues. Attendees of the event contribute to supporting the various programs and services that Veterans Place offers to aid veterans in the Pittsburgh region.
Recognition and Accreditations
In 2019, Veterans Place received the Pittsburgh Business Choice Award for Best Non-Profit, highlighting its impact and dedication to serving the veteran community. The organization is also CARF accredited for Community Employment Services: Employment Supports, Job Development, Community Housing, and Services Coordination. Additionally, Veterans Place received a three-year Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) grant from the Department of Labor in both 2017 and 2020, enabling further expansion and support of their services.
Community Partnerships and Impact
Veterans Place partners with various community organizations to address veteran homelessness in the Pittsburgh region. In 2022, the organization served over 800 veterans and fed 9,434 veterans and families. These partnerships are essential in leveraging resources and support from the community to effectively combat homelessness and provide comprehensive services to veterans in need.