National Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day (HPMD) has been commemorated annually since 1990 on December 21st. This is the first day of winter and the longest night of the year. On HPMD, people from across the nation come together to honor the memory of those who have passed away due to unstable home scenarios, to reflect upon the tragic circumstances surrounding homelessness, and to advocate for meaningful policy changes aimed to combat its effects. Such gestures include prayers, vigils, marches, and liaising with elected officials.
As COVID-19-related quarantines were being implemented across America in March of 2020, homelessness researchers were estimating the immediate needs of people experiencing homelessness. They concluded that $11.5 billion is necessary for 400,000 new shelter beds needed to accommodate everyone who is unsheltered, and to ensure appropriate social distancing, as well as the creation of quarantine locations for the sick and exposed.1
Several notable organizations (with whom this author has worked directly) who seek to end veteran homelessness include: The Wounded Warrior Project, American Veterans, and The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV). Indeed, the NCHV’s sole focus is to eradicate veteran homelessness. The New Jersey State Bar’s Military Legal Assistance Program also provides pro bono services to homeless veterans, among many other groups.
Cipriani & Werner’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, chaired by Mary Ellen Conroy, regularly works with organizations such as these, and encourages anyone to come forward with other suggestions on how to combat veteran homelessness - as well as homelessness overall. If you are interested, please contact Mary Ellen Conroy at mconroy@c-wlaw.com or (610) 567-0700.
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