Since 2009, the Arizona Housing Coalition has served as the backbone of the Arizona Veteran StandDown Alliance (AVSA), whose primary focus is supporting veterans experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity.
StandDown is a military term that refers to a brief period for a soldier to leave an active combat area, to rest and regain strength before returning to battle. Today, an AVSA StandDown is a one- or two-day event intended to provide relief for veterans - offering a hand up to former members of the military who now battle with homelessness, housing insecurity, and a variety of other challenges. AVSA hosts or supports a StandDown in each of Arizona's 15 counties. AVSA’s largest event is the Maricopa County StandDown (MCSD), which offers an array of services and resources to help veterans end their homelessness, address housing insecurity, reduce barriers to employment, and improve their health and wellness.
At a StandDown, the first goal is to assess each veteran to determine the services needed. StandDowns are open to all veterans, but those currently experiencing homelessness or housing instability are prioritized for service and resource connections.
The second goal is to address the veterans’ housing needs by connecting them with one of the onsite housing providers. Veterans who are literally homeless will be connected to an emergency shelter. From emergency shelter, veterans will be connected to the housing which best meets their needs including transitional housing for veterans that need a supportive environment while they work on substance use and/or behavioral health; permanent supportive housing for veterans who need long-term support; Bridge Housing for veterans with significant health issues who are transitioning to a long-term care facility; and affordable housing programs and veteran specific housing assistance.
The third goal is reducing barriers to housing stability, employment or improved health and wellness by connecting attendees to resources identified as a need in the assessment. Resources available include: VA medical staff – connecting veterans with medical, dental and behavioral health; Municipal and Superior Courts – resolution of outstanding legal issues; Motor Vehicle Division – issuing state identification, auto registration/renewals; Social Security Administration – connecting veterans to SSI/SSDI benefits; Employment opportunities – job placement, job search and training programs; and Veterinary Services – care for service/companion animals and beloved pets.
AVSA is largely supported by a contract with the Arizona Department of Veterans Services. The Arizona Housing Coalition is seeking additional funding to cover the cost of improving transportation to and from a StandDown, specifically for veterans with mobility issues; adding on-site dental care; and additional facility rental costs.
