Formerly Berkeley Food & Housing Project
The Power of VA Surges
A Surge is an intensive, short-term initiative led by Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to rapidly connect unhoused Veterans with immediate shelter and pathways to permanent housing. These events typically last 3 days and focus on providing quick, effective assistance to Veterans in need.
Surges operate on a multi-pronged approach:
- Immediate Shelter: Provide Veterans with a safe place to stay right away.
- Rapid Assessment: Quickly evaluate each Veteran’s needs and situation.
- Resource Connection: Refer Veterans to various support services and housing programs.
- Follow-up Planning: Develop long-term housing solutions for each individual.
Surges can have a significant and immediate impact on Veterans’ lives. During the Sacramento Surge in August, Insight Housing played a crucial role in a life-saving moment, spotting the symptoms of a critical medical emergency and the Veteran received prompt medical care. Two other individuals were taken to the ER, where they received much-needed treatment, and 18 Veterans were provided with immediate access to interim housing beds.
The Surge Comes to Oakland
The team at Insight Housing is now preparing for the upcoming Oakland Surge from October 23-25. This is an opportunity for our community to rally behind local Veterans and help transition them from the streets into safe, stable homes. While the Surge itself is carried out by trained professionals, we value the ongoing support and commitment of our community partners and donors.
We look forward to sharing the outcomes of the Oakland Surge and continuing our work to expand housing solutions and support services for Veterans in our community. Insight Housing remains dedicated to ending Veteran homelessness and ensuring every Veteran has a place to call home.