An Overview of Salvation Army Programs to Support Veterans

​Since 1865, the Salvation Army has served communities as an international evangelical movement grounded in the Bible and motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs without discrimination. The organization assists approximately 23 million Americans annually in 134 countries worldwide.

Veterans comprise eight percent of the homeless population in the US. They face housing insecurity, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-medication, and substance abuse disorders. The Salvation Army serves veterans through comprehensive support and services accessible nationwide.

According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the US has approximately 40,000 homeless veterans on any given night. The Salvation Army offers shelter to veterans by providing a safe place to rest, a hot meal, and a fresh start. For example, the Salvation Army of Louisville, Kentucky’s Center of Hope offers enrolled veterans and their families access to the Veterans Service Office. The office assists them in finding housing, employment, permanent housing solutions, and researching Veteran Affairs benefits.

Veterans also receive access to spiritual, social, and emotional assistance to help them cope with their problems and support themselves at Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) nationwide. The aid does not require insurance and remains free of charge. It provides a comprehensive, holistic approach to restoring hope and addressing social and life issues, including substance abuse.

Residential work-therapy programs at ARCs last 180 days and focus on the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of veterans. It serves veterans between 21 and 65 who can pass a drug test and breathalyzer upon arrival. With flexible schedules, participants will perform a work therapy assignment for up to eight hours a day. They must also agree to participate in all program activities, including counseling sessions, classes, and worship services.

Located in Oregon, The Salvation Army Veterans and Family Center (VFC) also offers comprehensive support to US veterans to help them rebuild their civilian lives. Services provided at VFC include treatment for substance use disorders, facilitating family reunification, housing placement, and job training. The transitional housing center offers a therapeutic environment for 50 veterans and their families daily and assists them for up to nine months.

The Salvation Army understands the unique challenges US veterans and their families face and addresses food insecurity through food pantries and meal programs. These initiatives ensure veterans have access to the nutrition and resources needed to achieve food security. For example, The Salvation Army in Redding, California, runs a Veterans Groceries food pantry every Wednesday to supply food and essential items to military veterans and their families.

Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a significant milestone for veterans who often face challenges securing employment despite their qualifications. The Salvation Army’s Veteran Employment Services offers comprehensive support, including job training, skill-set evaluations to identify strengths and abilities, benefit certifications, and assistance adapting to the civilian workforce to help veterans successfully navigate this critical phase. The job placement assistance includes crafting résumés, interview preparation, and providing employment connections. Furthermore, they offer continued support, assisting with financial planning, insurance coverage, and ensuring affordable childcare while parents work.