By: Allie Shane, Communications Specialist
According to research published by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), 85 communities and three states – Connecticut, Delaware and Virginia – effectively put an end to veteran homelessness between 2010 and 2024. In Milwaukee, organizations are working around the clock to ensure that the collective vision of ending veteran homelessness in both the community and the greater state of Wisconsin, will one day become a reality. One such organization moving the needle is the Center for Veterans Issues (CVI).
Launched in 1989, this nonprofit organization addresses issues that impact the lives of low-income veterans and their families. CVI is composed of 90 staff members – around 27% with veteran status – who work alongside veterans to understand their needs and provide the resources and services to improve their quality of life.
The organization is in the process of renovating and expanding Vets Place Central, CVI’s transitional housing facility for homeless veterans. Acquired in 1994, the original building accommodated 74 veterans in a shared-room style. Upon completion, the renovation and expansion will include 81 single-occupancy units with several new amenities like a club room, fitness center, library, media center, cafeteria and outdoor patio space. The project is expected to reach completion by Oct 1.
CVI follows a housing-first theory, meaning that access to housing and basic needs must come before everything else. Most individuals in need of support are referred to CVI by the VA and other community partners. A veteran can stay in a room at Vets Place Central for up to two years as they receive wrap-around supportive services that will allow them to reintegrate into society.
“We take vets where they’re at,” said CVI President Gregory Fritsch.
Once moved into Vets Place Central, each veteran is assigned to a case manager through CVI’s Transitional Housing Program (THP). The case managers help veterans navigate services like VA benefits and programs, housing and healthcare. Veterans can also take advantage of CVI’s Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program (HVRP). HVRP focuses on employment training and other supportive services to help Veterans navigate their entrance into the labor force.
“Whatever their next step is, we are here to support them,” said Fritsch.
Fritsch emphasized that while the organization’s services and programs are vast, strong collaboration among community organizations remains essential for sustained impact. CVI works with other veteran organizations to ensure each Veteran gets the service they need.
“It takes everybody,” said Fritsch.
There are a variety of ways for the business community to show support. CVI welcomes donations to any of its initiatives as well as sponsorship and attendance at CVI events. In just a few short weeks the organization is hosting its fourth-annual golf outing. Proceeds from the event will help furnish Vets Place Central. Fritsch also shared his excitement surrounding Heroes Table, a new program that will bring in community groups and restaurant groups to help prepare hot meals for the veterans.
“Those of us who didn’t serve want to give back to those who did,” said Fritsch.
Learn more about CVI: https://www.cvivet.org/
