Collaborating to Relocate Homeless Vets

By Public Affairs

The Salvation Army, working with the Hampton VA Medical Center and in partnership with the City of Hampton, will relocate Veterans currently housed in a leased building on the medical center campus.  The building, which is planned for demolition, currently houses about 50 Veterans residing in the facility as part of The Salvation Army’s transitional housing program.

“We are faced with a 100-year-old building that is not feasible to repair,” said Major Kim Feinauer, corps officer for The Salvation Army VA Peninsula.  “Our joint task force is looking at every option available to ensure the well-being and security of our Veterans as we move forward.”

The lease for the current facility expires May 31 and efforts are underway by The Salvation Army, the city and the medical center to create a comprehensive plan to relocate these Veterans within the local area.

“The Salvation Army provides an important service to the community that we would not want to do without,” said DeAnne Seekins, director of the Hampton VAMC.  “Our relationship with community partners is very strong and, together, we will ensure that our homeless Veterans seeking The Salvation Army services do not fall through the cracks.”

In January, a survey team determined that building repair costs would be in excess of $3.4 million.

“Veteran homelessness is a community issue,” said Bruce Sturk, director of Federal Facility Support for the City of Hampton.  “A community team effort is necessary and we are embracing this approach.”

Seekins said that she and her staff are committed to eliminating Veteran homelessness and that homeless coordinators will continue to work hand-in-hand with all local organizations toward that goal.

Organizations offering ideas or opportunities to provide alternative housing should contact The Salvation Army at (757) 838-4875.