Feenstra Supports Legislation to Reduce Veteran Homelessness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for the Housing our Military Veterans Effectively (HOME) Act, which would help reduce homelessness among Iowa veterans.

The HOME Act was originally sponsored by U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR) and passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 408 to 10.

“No veteran should be homeless in the United States of America. The incredible men and women who answered the call to protect our nation at home and abroad deserve our deepest appreciation and the benefits that they were promised and have earned,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m proud to support the HOME Act to ensure that we uphold our commitment to our servicemembers and that every veteran has a place to call home. I will always do my part to support and honor our brave veterans.”

The HOME Act would increase the per diem rate that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pays nonprofit organizations that support homeless veterans. More specifically, this legislation increases the per diem rate – which would be adjusted for inflation every year – from 115% to as high as 200% for rural communities and other areas with a higher-than-average rate of veteran suicide.

This bill would further ensure that the VA is using its resources to help feed, clothe, and find permanent homes for veterans while also establishing a stipend for homeless veterans to pay for food, clothes, personal hygiene items, transportation, and housing.

Legislative text can be found HERE.

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