On November 12, 2024, the Government of Canada announced over $9 million to support Veterans across BC and the Yukon. Randeep Sarai, Member of Parliament for Surrey Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs, Melissa De Genova, Director of Development Partnerships for VRS Communities, and Valerie MacGregor, Board Chair of the BC/Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion Foundation, made the announcement together at Legion Veterans Village in Surrey, BC.

The Legion Foundation is proud to be a partner in the Veterans Homelessness Program, receiving just over $4.5 million over the next 5 years to support low-income Veterans experiencing or at-risk of experiencing homelessness. This funding will provided to directly support eligible Veterans with rent supplements, utility payments, rental deposit assistance and other wrap around supports and referrals.

“The Legion Foundation believes that one homeless Veteran is one too many. We are excited to be part of this initiative to end Veteran homelessness and look forward to helping Veterans across BC and the Yukon,” said Foundation Chair, Valerie MacGregor, during the official announcement.

Statistics on Veterans homelessness:

• There are an estimated 2,600 Veterans experiencing homelessness across Canada,
• Former members of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP make up at least 6% of the homeless population in BC.
• Veterans are 2 to 3 times more likely to experience homelessness than other Canadians
• Approximately 20% of Veterans have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, which amplifies the risk of homelessness
• One-third of Veterans report difficulty transitioning back to civilian life
• The average age of homelessness onset among Veterans is around 48 years old

Chair MacGregor concluded, “This program is more than just numbers; it’s a commitment to ensure that Veterans are respected, supported, and empowered as they find stability and independence. We are grateful to the Government of Canada for this investment and look forward to the difference we will make together for Veterans here in Surrey, across BC and beyond. We are grateful to our Veterans for their service. We will remember them.”