Glossary of Terms
Homeless
Having no home or permanent place of residence (Merriam-Webster)
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HUD
The Department of Housing and Urban Development - the federal agency responsible for creating equitable housing opportunities particularly for low income and vulnerable populations
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DD 214
Department of Defense
form 214 - usually referred to as Discharge Papersm entf Defense
DCA
Department of Commuinity Affairs - Local entity under the auspices of HUD
- responsible for managing Section 8partment Odf
Chronically Homeless
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(1)A"homeless individual with a disability who:
-Lives in a place not meant for human habitation, a safe haven, or in an emergency shelter
-Has been homeless continuously for at least 12 months or on 4 separate occasions in the last 3 years
(2)Individual who has been residing in institutional care facility for fewer than 90 days, met all of the criteria in paragraph (1) before entering
(3)A family with an adult head of household (or if there is no adult in the family, a minor head of household) who meets all of the criteria in paragraph(1) or (2) of this definition, including a family whose composition has fluctuated while the head of household has been homeless.( HUD 2018)
Transitional Housing
Temporary housing, often with supportive services: case management, vocational training, benefits assistance and referrals to recovery services and mental health providers
Service Connection
VBA term for service related condition or injury which has been medically verified, acknowledged and assigned a financial stipend/ percentage
Section 8 Program
-Subsidized housing program for households with low incomes,
- Allows for access to market rate housing in the community
- Voucher holder pays a rent based on a percentage of household income as determined by DCA or PHA
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Veterans Administration
Federal agency with three branches: VBA (Veterans Benefits Administration), VHA(Veterans Health Administration and NCA (National Cemetery Administration)
Verification of Service Letter
Letter from VA Regional Office, proof of service in absence of a DD214
Supportive Services for Veterans and Families - funds and programs specifically designated for assisting homeless Veterans with familiesportive Services
SSVF
Public Housing Authority
Public Housing Authority (PHA): local housing entity that manages public housing at municipal level,often manages Section 8 vouchers