Earlier today, First Lady Michelle Obama kicked off the national Mayors Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness at the White House. "When a veteran comes home kissing the ground, it is unacceptable that he should have to sleep on it," was part of her rallying call that everyone - Mayors, Governors, businesses, community leaders and all citizens should participate in ending homelessness, especially for those who have given so much.
Citing the work that has been done to date through efforts like VASH, Mrs. Obama emphasized what is left to be done to cross the finish line to ensure every Veteran has a safe and stable place to call home.
Following the announcement the White House convened a panel of experts and Mayors to talk about the work already underway to end Veteran homelessness.
CSH's Mandy Chapman Semple, who works with Houston Mayor Annise Parker, presented on the amazing results happening in Houston. Through a dedicated Mayor, phenomenal partner organizations and CSH staff, a plan that includes coordinated access and supportive housing has housed 2,200 Veterans in just two-years.
Mayor Parker was one of five mayors who talked about how their cities have made a difference and are ending homelessness for veterans, and in Houston the results extend to the chronically homeless too.
Read more about our work in Houston.
Find out if your Mayor has signed on the the Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness and if not the First Lady encourages you to "light up their phones!"
