AUGUSTA, Ga. - Homelessness can touch every part of a community, and in Augusta, Veterans may be a more vulnerable population. 

The Veterans Administration says there are many who have served our country, to return home struggling to find a job, make ends meet, or on the verge of homelessness, or already homeless.

Veterans arrived at VA Uptown Augusta campus for the annual Homeless Veteran Stand-down event. 

A resource fair that is for veterans who are at risk or experiencing homelessness. The event brings together all resources from both the VA and community services to help others rebuild their lives.

Veterans were assisted with registering for programs within local organizations. 

They were given essential items like water bottles, toiletries, gloves, and blankets. Those who were interested get free haircuts and a hot meal.

CSRA Economic Opportunity Authority was present at the event with their Supportive Services for Veteran Families branch. T out applications and essential items. 

Chatale Sullivan says that after her department helps with financial assistance. They help veterans look for a job. 

"Once they are discharged from our program because it's temporary... they're ready to hit the ground rolling and they can sustain their life." Said Sullivan.

The Department of Veterans Affairs recently announced more than one billion dollars in grant money to help homeless and at-risk veterans. 

N Veterans A permanently housed more than 25,00 v sin 2023. 

Locally, 140 of those received assistance from Augusta VA.

Sabrina Faircloth manages VA Augusta's Homeless program. She says it can be difficult for veterans to reach out when their life is in shambles, and that there's no wrong door to access their services.

"So, we do street outreach, we have walk-in offices. We also have an 800 number that veterans can call and those calls get routed to us." Said Faircloth.

Any veteran who is homeless rat risk of becoming homeless can contact VA Augusta at 877-424-383.

COPYRIGHT 2023 WFXG. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.