According to the most recent Canadian census taken in 2021, there are an estimated 461,240 Canadian veterans. As of October 2025, the Government of Canada estimates that approximately 1,800 of those veterans are currently experiencing homelessness across the country.

In December 2025, Minister Wayne Long, member of Parliament for Saint John—Kennebecasis, New Brunswick, announced more than $1.3 million in federal funding for the New Brunswick Veterans Homelessness Project, an initiative for the prevention and reduction of homelessness among veterans in the province.

This project involves the collective effort of organizations in New Brunswick, including Fredericton Homeless Shelters, the John Howard Society in Moncton and The Salvation Army Saint John Hope Community Church. Together, this tri-city group of agencies works together to ensure that veterans in each jurisdiction are supported and that they receive consistent access to the programs and resources they need.

As part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy, this initiative will provide funding for a designated veteran connector in each community to give wrap-around supports and help connect veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness to resources. Supports may include housing assistance, mental health and addiction services, and financial aid. 

Tara Hosford, veterans community connector at Saint John Hope, provides dignity and service to the veterans she serves, seeking to offer the maximum level of support while building trust.

“Housing is a right, and veterans are at increased risk of homelessness or being evicted from housing for a variety of reasons,” says Hosford. “This program provides a safe space to ask for and seek help as they navigate complex social systems. It helps veterans regain a sense of purpose and value.”

“We’re meeting human needs by supporting the practical and emotional needs of those we serve,” says Lieutenant Jason Brinson, corps officer. “We also believe that through this support, transformation takes place. This innovative partnership gives hope to those who are experiencing hardship and builds a more stable community.”

As Lieutenant Brinson and Hosford note, some veterans fall off the radar because they may not consider themselves veterans and they don’t know what supports are available to them. The Veteran Community Connect Program will help provide greater opportunities to these veterans and their families so that they can find long-term stability.