Gov. Jack Markell’s weekly message focuses on the continuing work that needs to be done to improve quality of life for veterans in Delaware.
Markell says his administration has made strides in helping vets find work. In 2009, the Department of Labor saw a 55 percent increase in positive employment outcomes for Delaware veterans, especially those who are disabled.
He now says his administration has made a commitment to end veterans homelessness by the end of this year. Last month, he announced the state would take on a 100 Day Challenge to find housing for 96 homeless veterans.
“This past week, volunteers across the state mobilized to identify veterans in need of housing and we’re asking landlords to visit delawarehousingsearch.org to participate in the effort. As we give thanks those who have served our country and those who continue to fight for our freedom, we must meet our obligation to serve them at home," said Markell.
Full text of Gov. Markell's weekly message:
Our Veterans Day celebrations and commemorations this past week provide an important opportunity to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the men and women who have accepted the responsibility of serving our state and country. We’re reminded that we are only the land of the free because we are the home of the brave. Abraham Lincoln once said, “Honor to the soldier and the sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country’s cause,” and to honor them, we must do more than recognize them this week.
We’ve made progress. We’re supporting Veteran entrepreneurship through an effort to ensure access to state contracts for veteran-owned businesses. We’re also doing more than ever to provide job training and connect former service members to job opportunities. Since 2009, our Department of Labor has seen a 55 percent increase in positive employment outcomes for all veterans, including a significant increase for disabled veterans.
And it’s why my administration made the ambitious commitment in January to end Veterans Homelessness in one year. I’m proud that, led by the State Housing Authority, we have found permanent housing for 140 homeless veterans. But with the end of the year quickly approaching we have much work to do. Last month, I announced a 100 Day Challenge to reach our goal by finding housing for 96 homeless veterans.
This past week, volunteers across the state mobilized to identify veterans in need of housing and we’re asking landlords to visit delawarehousingsearch.org to participate in the effort. As we give thanks those who have served our country and those who continue to fight for our freedom, we must meet our obligation to serve them at home. By continuing to support veterans and working to ensure they have every opportunity to thrive, we’ll keep Delaware moving forward.
