The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Heath Care for Homeless Veterans program in Spokane plans to move into a building being renovated and expanded at 504 E. Second, east of downtown, says Bret Bowers, public affairs officer at Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center.

The addition and tenant improvement project underway at that address is valued at $850,000, according to information on a building permit issued by the city of Spokane. Spokane Valley-based Meridian Construction Inc. is the contractor.

The homeless vet program will move by spring into the 6,500-square-foot building, Bowers says. 

The program currently is located at 705 W. Second, a few of blocks west of its planned new home.

Shannon Dunkin, program coordinator and clinic manager, says, “Our new location is larger and will provide us space to accommodate groups for mental health, social support, (and) trainings.”

Health Care for Homeless Veterans has a staff of 25 here. Two program employees are at each of the community-based outpatient clinics, in Coeur d’Alene and Wenatchee, Wash., and one employee is stationed with the Colville Indian Housing Authority, in Nespelem, Wash.

Bowers says the office space will include cubicles, examination rooms, a conference room, and a waiting room. It will also include offices for counseling and the medical provider.

The new location will provide the program a “newer facility to give us better opportunity to serve more veterans as well as be in an environment that is welcoming and open for veterans who truly want to commit to their own health and quality of life,” he says.

Services offered to clients through the program include transitional and permanent supportive housing, case management, employment support, and peer support. Medical care and mental health care, such as therapy and psychiatric follow-ups, also are available, Bowers says.

Dunkin adds that Health Care for Homeless Veterans Program provides community outreach and other services for homeless vets.