unheard voices
The solution: Part 1
When I explain what we do and what our program is, I think there’s a huge assumption of laziness.
Danielle DeSalvo, Veteran Specialist
There are various agencies scattered throughout Fort Collins that aim at minimizing homelessness. Among them is Volunteers of America (VOA) — a program that provides case management, program referrals and temporary financial assistance for homeless veterans or veterans with eviction notices. I have the pleasure of interviewing my roommate, Danielle DeSalvo, to acquire a better understanding of what VOA does for the homeless community.
As a Veteran Specialist, Danielle works closely with 18 clients, contacting them every week. Her responsibility is divided into three parts: intaking a client and finding a home that meets their needs and modifications, making sure the client is able to maintain that housing, and then exiting them through the program. On average, clients are enrolled at VOA for four-to-five months.
"When I explain what we do and what our program is, I think there's a huge assumption of laziness," states Danielle.
Despite outside perspective, attitudes of the clients are generally positive. Many come from different backgrounds and circumstances, affecting their overall outlook on life. Income instability is perhaps the biggest struggle they face when maintaining housing, according to Danielle. Most clients also struggle with Post Traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD), a common disorder prevalent among the veteran population.
Throughout our conversation, I can't help but wonder what is being done for the individuals who aren't veterans and also struggle with homelessness. Refusing to let this question fall to the waist side, I decide to ask for Danielle's perspective.
"There's a lot of motivation in the community to help veterans. Homelessness as a whole, it's easy for individuals to be overlooked," she says.
Leaving that conversation I feel dissatisfied. There has to be other resources available to the homeless community. After doing some investigating, I begin to discover just how sympathetic the local community is to its homeless population.