The House of Representatives today passes two amendments by Congresswoman Katie Porter (CA-45) that would increase money to fighting veteran homelessness and helping veterans in crisis. These dollars would go towards Department of Veterans Affairs homeless assistance programs and a toll-free suicide hotline for veterans.

“Our servicemembers put their lives on the line to keep us safe—our duty is to make sure they are taken care of when they return home,” Congresswoman Porter said. “From fighting veteran homelessness to making sure veterans in crisis receive the care they need, I’m proud to fund key programs to do right by our veterans.”

Rep. Porter’s first amendment increases funding for the VA’s homeless assistance programs, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development-Department of Veterans Affairs Supported Housing (HUD–VASH) program and the Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) program. The HUD-VASH program provides long-term case management, supportive services, and permanent housing support. Under the SSVF program, the VA awards grants to private non-profit organizations and consumer cooperatives that can provide supportive services to very low-income Veteran families living in or transitioning to permanent housing.

Rep. Porter’s second amendment increases funding for the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans considering suicide can call this hotline for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Previously, Congresswoman Porter successfully led a bipartisan letter calling on the House Appropriations Committee to include language in the bill that would guarantee that veterans calling this hotline receive an immediate response from an appropriately trained individual.

Congresswoman Porter has been a consistent advocate for Orange County veterans. Earlier this week, an amendment backed by Porter passed the full House that would increase funding to help connect our veterans to the solar energy industry to provide clean energy jobs. Last month, she became the first freshman Member of Congress to tour the Long Beach VA, which serves Orange County veterans.

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