Unique Considerations for Homeless Female Veterans

Abstract

As the number of women Veterans continues to increase, so does the number of women Veterans experiencing housing instability. Homelessness or risk for homelessness among women Veterans may be directly linked to their experiences before, during, and after their military service, particularly the experience of trauma. To address homelessness among women Veterans, providers and researchers must acknowledge the gendered nature of both the military and Veteran-specific resources. Responses should include providing housing-related interventions specifically for women, assessing and addressing trauma among women Veterans, responding to the needs of younger women Veterans who may be homeless with children, and supporting women Veterans during their reintegration after discharge from the military.