Northern Arizona has seen a dramatic increase in the need for housing support for veterans, with record numbers of unhoused veterans seeking assistance from the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System. According to a spokesperson, the system successfully housed 434 veterans from October of the previous year to September, surpassing its goal by approximately 9%.
This surge in demand comes at a time when homelessness among veterans is rising across the nation. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reported that nearly 52,000 homeless veterans were housed in the past year, marking an 8% increase from 2024 and the highest number of veteran housing placements in seven years.
“The increase in veteran homelessness is concerning, but we’re encouraged by the progress we’re making in housing more veterans and continuing to expand resources to meet the growing need,” said Tommy Williams, a spokesperson for the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System.
Key Facts on Northern Arizona’s VA Housing Efforts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Veterans Housed in 2025 | 434 veterans (surpassing goal by 9%) |
| National Number of Veterans Housed | 52,000 (8% increase from 2024) |
| New Housing Units Opening | 23 units in January 2026 at Fort Whipple, Prescott |
| Additional Housing Units | 80 units to open in June 2026 |
| Factors Driving Demand | Rising housing costs, limited supply, economic pressures |
| Veterans Served | Veterans at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness |
| Call Center for Veterans | 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) for housing and support services |
| Program Timeline | Housing units open January and June 2026 |
Key Factors Driving the Surge in Demand for Veteran Housing
The rise in demand for veteran housing can be attributed to several factors, including the tight housing supply and increasing living costs in northern Arizona. These challenges have led to more veterans facing housing instability, and the situation has been exacerbated by economic pressures. Veterans in need of housing support often face barriers such as mental health issues, lack of affordable housing, and limited access to resources.
“As housing prices continue to rise and supply remains tight, it’s increasingly difficult for veterans to find affordable, stable housing. We are working to provide a safety net for these individuals, but the need is greater than ever,” explained Laura Foster, a social worker with the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System.
VA Housing Efforts in Northern Arizona
To combat the rising homelessness among veterans, the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System has been expanding its efforts to provide permanent housing solutions. The system’s success in housing 434 veterans in the past year is a testament to the efficacy of these efforts. This number exceeds the initial goal, showing that targeted programs can make a meaningful impact.
In response to the growing need, the VA is taking proactive steps to further increase the number of available units for veterans. Twenty-three new units are set to open in January 2026 at the Fort Whipple campus in Prescott, providing essential housing for veterans at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. Additionally, 80 more units are scheduled to open in June 2026, further expanding the available housing options for veterans in northern Arizona.
National and Regional Efforts to Combat Homelessness Among Veterans
While the efforts in northern Arizona are impressive, they are part of a broader national strategy by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to address homelessness among veterans. The VA reported a record number of 52,000 homeless veterans permanently housed in the past year, marking an 8% increase from the previous year.
The rise in housing placements comes after the VA’s continued push for greater outreach and assistance to veterans at risk of homelessness. Initiatives like Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers and outreach programs have been vital in moving veterans into permanent housing and connecting them to the support services they need.
“The VA’s national push to end homelessness among veterans is showing significant progress, but we must continue our efforts to expand housing and provide veterans with the resources necessary to thrive,” said Mark McManus, Director of Housing Programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Expanding Housing Opportunities for Veterans in Northern Arizona
The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System has been an essential player in these national efforts, providing critical housing support and a comprehensive range of services for veterans in need. The success of the 434 veterans housed in the past year is part of a larger initiative to permanently house as many veterans as possible, ensuring that they receive not only a roof over their heads but the tools and support they need to rebuild their lives.
As part of this continued effort, the Fort Whipple campus in Prescott will be opening an additional 23 units in January 2026. The planned 80 more units scheduled to open in June 2026 will further support the growing demand for housing, especially as the region faces an ongoing housing crisis.
“It’s encouraging to see that we are exceeding our housing goals, but there’s more to do. We remain committed to ensuring that every veteran who needs a home has access to one,” said Jeff Slaikeu, Senior Program Manager with the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System.
Final Thought
The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System has proven to be an essential part of the VA’s efforts to reduce homelessness among veterans. With a record number of 434 veterans housed in 2025 and additional units set to open in 2026, the region is making significant progress in addressing the growing demand for veteran housing. As national homelessness rates for veterans continue to rise, the VA remains committed to providing housing and comprehensive services that enable veterans to lead stable and fulfilling lives.
“Every step we take to house a veteran is a step toward ending homelessness for good. Our work is far from over, but we’re making strides every day,” said Tommy Williams, spokesperson for the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System.
FAQs
How many veterans were permanently housed by the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System in the past year?
The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System housed 434 veterans from October to September, surpassing their initial goal by 9%.
What are the factors contributing to the rise in veteran homelessness in northern Arizona?
The main factors include tight housing supply and rising living costs, both of which have led to an increased number of veterans facing housing instability.
How is the VA responding to the increased demand for veteran housing?
The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System is opening new housing units, including 23 units in January 2026 and an additional 80 units in June 2026, to address the growing need for housing among veterans.
What other efforts are being made to combat homelessness among veterans nationwide?
Nationally, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has housed 52,000 homeless veterans in the past year, marking an 8% increase from the previous year. This is part of ongoing efforts like Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers and outreach programs.
How can veterans in need of housing support access assistance?
Veterans can reach out to the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) or visit the VA’s website for information on housing programs and support services.
