Securing stable housing is the foundation of rebuilding a veteran’s life. For many transitioning from homelessness or temporary shelters, the process can feel overwhelming—filled with paperwork, long waitlists, and confusing programs. This section of The Forgotten Veteran is designed to simplify that journey by outlining the key housing options available through federal, state, and city programs such as HUD-VASH, CityFHEPS, NYCHA, and Supportive Housing. With proper documentation, persistence, and peer guidance, veterans can move from uncertainty to independence. The goal is not just housing—but sustainable, dignified living that supports long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
Housing for Veterans
The Forgotten Veteran – Housing Section Overview
Each section of the housing guide introduces programs that help veterans access affordable, sustainable housing across New York City and New York State. These programs support veterans transitioning from shelters, incarceration, or homelessness toward stable and independent living.
HUD-VASH (HUD & VA Supportive Housing)
Program Description: A partnership between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) providing housing vouchers and case management for homeless veterans. Often called Section 8 for veterans.
· HUD-VASH Overview – VA.gov: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp
· HUD-VASH – HUD.gov: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv/vash
CityFHEPS (City Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement)
Program Description: A NYC rental assistance voucher for individuals and families facing eviction or homelessness. Veterans may qualify based on prior shelter stays or risk of eviction.
· CityFHEPS Program – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/cityfheps.page
· Homebase Locator: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page
SOTA (Special One-Time Assistance Program)
Program Description: Pays up to one year of rent for DHS shelter residents moving to permanent housing in NYC, another NY county, or out-of-state.
· SOTA Program – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/sota.page
Supportive Housing
Program Description: Combines affordable housing with on-site social services for individuals and families facing chronic homelessness, mental illness, or substance use challenges. Requires submission of the HRA 2010e form.
· Supportive Housing Network of NY: https://shnny.org/
· HRA 2010e Application – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/supportive-housing.page
HASA (HIV/AIDS Services Administration)
Program Description: Offers rent assistance, case management, and supportive housing for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
· HASA Program – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/hiv-aids-services.page
NYCHA / Section 8
Program Description: Administers public housing and federal Housing Choice Vouchers. Tenants pay approximately 30% of income toward rent; NYCHA pays the remainder directly to landlords.
· NYCHA Official Site: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/nycha/index.page
· Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher – HUD.gov: https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
Homebase (Homelessness Prevention)
Program Description: Assists tenants at risk of homelessness with rental assistance, case management, and aftercare support for those transitioning from DHS shelters to permanent housing.
· Homebase Locations – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page
Housing Connect Lotteries
Program Description: NYC’s online portal for affordable rental and homeownership opportunities managed by HPD and HDC. Applicants can view current lotteries and submit applications directly.
· NYC Housing Connect: https://housingconnect.nyc.gov
· HPD Housing Lotteries – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/housing-connect.page
NYS Veterans Emergency Housing Assistance Fund
Program Description: A state-funded program offering up to $2,000 in emergency aid to veterans facing sudden housing crises, repairs, or relocation costs.
· NYS Veterans’ Services – Housing: https://veterans.ny.gov/content/housing
Eviction Prevention & Legal Aid
Program Description: Provides free legal representation for NYC tenants facing eviction. Seniors and veterans can access emergency rent relief and housing protection.
· Right-to-Counsel – NYC.gov: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/legal-services-for-tenants.page
· Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): https://otda.ny.gov/programs/emergency-rental-assistance/