The Official Voice of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. ®
An organization chartered by the U.S. Congress
September/October 2002
LEADERSHIP CONFERENCEServing Homeless Veterans
On August 15, some 50 VVA and AVVA members left the El Conquistador and visited two Transitional Residential Treatment Programs for Homeless Veterans. The first stop was at Comin' Home, a short-term program for homeless veterans with both substance abuse and psychiatric disorders. Veterans are referred to the program from the VA Health Care Program or the VA Substance Abuse Treatment Program.Veterans live at the Comin' Home site, attend group and one-on-one counseling, and receive support in finding employment or community volunteer work. They also do a variety of social and recreational activities that help them restore balance in their lives. Comin' Home started in January 1989 with five veterans. Between 1989 to 2001, 832 veterans benefited from this program. After the tour, the VVA-AVVA group met some of the residents.
The second stop was at Esperanza En Escalante, a two-year program that provides facilities, programs, and respect for individuals and families. EEE supports the transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency and independent living.
Veterans - single or with families - are referred from Southern Arizona Health Care System, from the Homeless Program, the Substance Abuse Treatment Program, local homeless shelters, hospitals, and other social agencies. There is a waiting list. Candidates must be substance free, and a drug screen is required.
The residents of Esperanza En Escalante held a Mexican Fiesta for the visiting VVA and AVVA members. Music was provided by mariachis. Salsa, chips, nachos, and taquitos were served. The group was entertained by stick-wielding, blindfolded children who smashed the piñata. Special gifts made by the residents' children were passed out to the visitors.
To find out more about Coming' Home or to arrange for donations, contact Mary Pat Sullivan, Executive Director, or Billy Vertz, Assistant Manager, at 520-322-6980.
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