RIVERSIDE – A new partnership between the Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services and the organization Vet Phoenix is providing more outreach, services and housing placements to “justice-involved” veterans throughout Riverside County.

Last year, Riverside County received a grant from state Proposition 47 funding to reach veterans that come out of the prison system. The Riverside County Board of Supervisors today voted 4-0 to solidify a contract with Vet Phoenix, Inc. The nonprofit organization founded by formerly incarcerated veterans will provide peer support and case management to connect with this veteran population.

Supervisor V. Manuel Perez discussed the initiative at today’s meeting to highlight this effort to provide comprehensive, wraparound services that will assist in the veteran’s reintegration into the community.

“I think we have come a long way when it comes to supporting our veterans but, obviously, there is more to be done,” said Supervisor Perez. “We are working with our veterans to provide different types of services as well to veterans coming out of the prison system. This ensures they have skill sets linked to a job, behavioral health services access to care, and housing that goes a long way to stabilizing the veteran.”

Since April, Vet Phoenix team members have enrolled 65 veterans. Over 20 have found housing through this program.

Gregory Coffos, Riverside County Director of Veterans’ Services, states, “This program represents one of the most important steps forward for Riverside County Veterans’ Services. It is designed to serve a group of veterans that is often overlooked, those who are justice-involved and working to re-enter our community after incarceration. This doesn’t just offer veterans’ services, it offers guidance, credibility and hope from people who have walked the same path. From benefits to housing to re-entry support, we are building a system now that makes sure that no veteran in this county is forgotten.”

The program provides comprehensive, trauma-informed services that address critical reentry needs, including mental health treatment, substance abuse recovery, stable housing assistance, and employment support.

The program is funded through the California Board of State and Community Corrections. To find out more or enroll, contact the Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services at 951-955-3060.