Three Hots and A Cot - that is something every veteran gets while on active duty.
Along with normal pay and benefits, and along with the family separation and countless personal sacrifices each veteran makes, we always got “Three Hots and A Cot”.
Veterans without homes can be found on the streets of every major city and every state in our nation. From Washington DC to Richmond, Virginia. From Tampa, FL to Dallas, TX. From San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL. There is a need for our initiative in many locations.
The homeless population in Birmingham is currently at nearly 3,000. Of these approximately 800 are veterans, 5% of these are women. Many of these veterans are dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues. All face each day on the streets looking for a meal and a place to sleep in safety. There are limited beds available for the entire homeless population and the veterans receive no special treatment because they are veterans. 27% of these homeless are chronic homeless - over 12 months on the streets. The availability of services and treatment centers is a major obstacle in providing for the homeless population.