Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001

The Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001 established a national goal to end chronic homelessness among veterans within a decade by significantly expanding federal support and coordination. The law increased the number of case managers and specialized staff at regional offices to ensure veterans receive personalized help with housing vouchers, job training, and mental health services. It also created a grant and per diem program to fund community-based organizations that provide transitional housing and vocational counseling.

For veterans and their families, this legislation improved access to essential services by requiring Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers to implement specific plans for treating substance abuse and mental health disorders. It also prioritized the use of surplus federal property for homeless veteran services and mandated better cooperation between the Departments of Labor and Veterans Affairs to help veterans reintegrate into the workforce. By establishing an Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans, the act ensured ongoing oversight and evaluation of how effectively federal programs are meeting the needs of those who served.