New Life Center adds new program aiming to help veterans experiencing homelessness

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – The New Life Center has started a homeless veteran program to help those that have served our country and are now in need. The program opened back in October in partnership with the Fargo VA and it is a 12-bed unit located at the main shelter.

“The sacrifices made by veterans in the line of duty is immeasurable. Yet upon leaving the military some of them struggle with homelessness due to a variety of factors. Such as post traumatic stress disorder, difficulty transitioning out of the military and a lack of adequate support systems to help get them back on their feet.” said Rob Swiers of the New Life Center.

It provides veterans with a bed, a home base high-quality care and support for up to two years. This is an effort to try and help those in need and increase their overall self-sufficiency and stability.

“Addressing key dimensions of overall wellness is an important factor as well. Some of these areas include physical health, mental health, addiction, addiction recovery, employment and should the veteran be interested, spiritual well-being as well.” said Swiers.

According to Diana Hall Bjerke, the clinical program manager with Fargo Veteran Affairs, when she started there 16 years ago there were major problems with veterans facing homelessness.

“On any given night in just the state of North Dakota. There were probably about 300 homeless veterans. 30% of the homeless population were veterans. And that was very high. Right after I came on board, the secretary of the VA said we’re going to end veteran homelessness.” said Hall Bjerke.

And now that number has dropped to around 20 to 25 a night. All in an effort to help those that have served our country when they need it most.

New Life Center can be found at 1902 third avenue north in Fargo.