March has been a special month announcing that the Southwest Continuum of Care is the first in the state to end Veteran Homelessness!  This would not have been possible without the help and collaboration of numerous partnerships.  Does this mean we can take our foot off the gas as it relates to funding and assistance? Of course not!  This is when the real work begins!  It is essential that we keep our rapid response plan in place to prevent others from falling into homelessness.

March 20th was our annual Veterans’ Day on the Hill.  This year had a special atmosphere of being proactive and focused on the needs of Veterans and their families. The legislative leaders were there to make known their support for our Veterans. We will have to wait to see what the session brings, but I am proud and thank all those who made the trip to St. Paul.

Veterans Homes remain a big item of interest among legislators. One legislator asked when the Homes will be “stabilized” as far as funding. My answer: We are in the final stages of construction of the three-phased reconstruction of the Minneapolis Veterans Home. After its completion, we, as an agency, have only one remaining ‘legacy’ objective; the repair of the historical bridge over Minnehaha Creek. The bridge was deemed unsafe several years ago and has been closed ever since. Having only one access road to the Home has been a safety problem, especially when events take place in the park.

New Veterans Homes remain a key discussion topic in the legislature. Three communities have stepped forward seeking a Veterans Home. They are Bemidji, Montevideo and Preston.

As I reviewed our newly released 2016 Annual Report, I was pleased that so many of our objectives were accomplished. The report listed the many partners that our agency has across the state and nation.  The beauty embedded in the data was the partnerships we have created with other agencies. We were able to create a multiplying impact on the care of our Veterans.

Is there more to do? Of course - but I have sensed a commitment throughout Minnesota that provides a solid base for future expansion in the caring of all Veterans, regardless of need. To our Veterans Service Organizations, thank you for your ability to get things done! Lead on!!!

And finally I will be attending a special banquet in Duluth to honor Veterans for their dedication to ensuring the proper and respectful burial of Veterans. Their commitment through their attention to detail and discipline has ensured the families that their loved one is honored for their service to their country.

Thank you for your service and sacrifice!