Veteran Services

Story submitted by Dylan Starks, SSVF Fort Collins After years of cycling in and out of housing, one Northern Colorado veteran had started to believe stability simply was not possible. He had experienced chronic homelessness for years and had previously received housing support through VOA Colorado’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. But ongoing mental health challenges and other barriers made it difficult to maintain long-term housing. This time, the approach looked different. Recognizing that traditional solutions were not enough, the SSVF team in Fort Collins partnered closely with the VA to create a more individualized plan focused on…

For most of his life, Roy never thought of himself as a veteran in the way that seemed to matter. He had served during peacetime—just three and a half years—and because he hadn’t seen combat, he believed that disqualified him from any recognition, any support, any sense of belonging. “I didn’t think anyone would care,” he said. “I was in the service, and that was it.” After moving to Fort Collins, Colorado in 2021, Roy tried to make a new start. But with both physical and mental health struggles mounting, he found himself unable to work, slipping closer and closer…

At VOA Colorado, Haircuts for Vets isn’t just a one-time event—it’s part of an ongoing promise to stand beside the men and women who once stood for us. Through this continuing program, VOA Colorado and its community partners provide more than just the basics. Homeless veterans in Denver receive hot meals, clothing, personal hygiene products, new shoes, and the simple, confidence-boosting gift of a fresh haircut. These small yet powerful acts of care restore dignity and hope—and remind each veteran that they are not forgotten. “Helping our veterans’ community is a top priority for VOA Colorado,” said Faustine Curry, vice…

The cycle of homelessness is complex. This is especially true for our veterans. In addition to an already overwhelming and challenging set for circumstances such as a lack of affordable housing, poverty, job or income loss, mental illness, substance abuse, and health problems, many vets live with debilitating PTSD, often don’t have a good family or support network, and must deal with a complicated and nearly impossible system when it comes to receiving benefits and resources. VOA Colorado’s Veterans Service Center (VSC) located at 1247 Santa Fe Drive in Denver, stands as a testament to compassion and innovation in supporting…