Services for the Underserved, Inc. (S:US)

S:US’ Veterans Services and Supportive Housing – COVID-19 Response

Service Area: New York City

The following program was awarded grants as part of the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s second 2020 Expedited Grants Portfolio, addressing urgent needs related to COVID-19.

The nearly 3,000 veterans and their families S:US serves are among the most vulnerable in NYC, and are often experiencing the greatest barriers to independence and full community integration. The social distancing restrictions and stay-at-home order imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have taken an especially heavy toll on this population. While S:US’s supportive housing for low-income, formerly homeless veterans, normally emphasizes socialization via communal spaces and support groups, these activities have had to halt and thus limited veterans’ connection to a supportive community. Additionally, as COVID-19 has severely impacted the job market nationally, employment support is more important now than ever. S:US remains committed to helping some of NYC’s most vulnerable veterans prepare for civilian employment, secure interviews, enter new careers, and follow up with additional necessary support to ensure individual success. This NFL-Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) partnership “Healthy Lifestyles and Creating Community” grant will improve the wellbeing and employment status of at least 175 post-9/11 veterans by safely providing PPE, connection to mental health services, opportunities for social connection, and employment support.