Local Royal Canadian Legion branches assisting veterans experiencing homelessness

The Royal Canadian Legion’s ‘Leave the Streets Behind’ program has helped thousands of veterans across Canada experiencing homelessness.

In Waterloo Region, the program has assisted 52 veterans since the program began in 2012.

“The goal is to work with veterans that are on the streets, or nearly on the streets, or in some cases some of them have no permanent residence. They are couch surfing or staying in shelters,” said Bill Kalbhenn, veteran service officer at Hespeler Branch 272 of the Legion.

Local branches of the Royal Canadian Legion work with a variety of partners to support veterans.

“We work closely with Waterloo Regional Police and their Military Veterans Wellness Program,” Kalbhenn said. “We also have outreach throughout the community, through food banks and the shelters.”

Veterans Affairs Canada also provides support. Anyone who is a veteran or knows of one experiencing homelessness is encouraged to contact their local legion branch.

There are also various other ways to help, Preston Branch 126 recently asked on social media if any used cell phones were available to donate.

It’s all part of the support that the programs give to veterans once their service is verified.

“We will also help with first and last month’s rent if there are rent payment issues, furnishing assistance if required, moving expenses, payments for utilities, shelter, and food,” said Kalbhenn.

The Legion is working with Region of Waterloo housing to try and find ways to provide affordable housing for veterans. Hespeler Branch 272 is also considering different ways to supply housing.

“We’re also looking at potentially severing off a piece of property here at our branch in Hespeler that will accommodate up to six units for veterans and six units for senior residents as well,” Kalbhenn said.

To learn more about the Leave the Streets Behind program, you can click here.