Cocoa shelter for homeless women vets important step

Our views: Comrades in arms (Jan. 26)
Cocoa shelter for homeless women vets important step
January 26, 2010


A few weeks ago in this space, we drew attention to the rising number of homeless veterans returning from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to what we called a “perfect storm” of trouble.


Trouble with the ravaging effects of post-traumatic stress disorder from repeated combat tours, trouble finding a job in the recession and trouble putting food on the table for themselves and their families.


Among their ranks nationally and in our community are an alarming number of women veterans winding up on the streets with their children.


We said the situation demands more attention and we’re happy to report that’s happening along the Space Coast.


The Center for Drug Free Living broke ground Friday in Cocoa for the first local shelter dedicated to homeless women veterans and their kids. It’s an important, compassionate step that will help fight this unseen crisis.


The center will include seven, two-bedroom units with common living and dining areas along with housing, substance abuse and mental health services for 28 women.


The $1.6 million project was largely funded through the Department of Veterans Affairs, part of its ramped-up, $3.2 billion plan to help returning veterans, including the homeless.


Other money came locally, including $250,000 from an unnamed Brevard County donor who deserves a special thanks.
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Cocoa shelter for homeless women vets important step