[December 11, 2012] |
|
VA's National Director for Homeless Programs Wins Award
WASHINGTON --(Business Wire)--
Lisa M. Pape, the national director, Veterans Health Administration
(VHA) homeless programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs, has
been named recipient of the 2012 Knee - Wittman Award for outstanding
achievement in health and mental health policy.
"I commend Lisa for the implementation of VA's plan to end homelessness
among Veterans, including programs for homeless and at-risk Veterans
that span prevention, outreach, treatment, transitional and permanent
housing solutions and supportive services," stated Undersecretary for
Health Robert A. Petzel, M.D. "She effectively executes VA's $1 billion
budget for specialized homeless services, and focuses on the best ways
to meet the needs of these Veterans."
The 2012 Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) to Congress, prepared
by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, estimates there were
62,619 homeless Veterans on asingle night in January in the United
States, a 7.2 percent decline since 2011 and a 17.2 percent decline
since 2009. As part of President Obama's and Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Eric K. Shinseki's five-year plan to eliminate Veteran
homelessness in 2015, VA has committed significant resources to
strengthen programs that prevent and treat the many issues that can lead
to Veteran homelessness.
The annual Knee - Wittman Award recognizes an individual or group that
has made a significant impact on national health public policy,
professional standards, or program models.
"It's an honor to be recognized by the National Association of Social
Workers," said Pape. "I work with a remarkable team across the country
that shares the critical mission of helping homeless Veterans get off
the street and lead successful, independent lives."
Pape, who resides in Maryland, was selected for the award by a panel of
social work leaders. The award is named for legendary social workers
Ruth Knee and Milton Wittman, who guided the development of social
policy and standards. The National Association of Social Workers
Foundation is the largest social work member organization in the world.
Pape is also the recipient of a meritorious service award from the
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Service to America Medals
citizen services award and various other departmental and industry
awards.
The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans is available 24/7 to
provide linkages to VA homeless program staff nationwide that can assist
homeless and at risk Veterans with VA and community referrals and
assistance. The toll free number to reach the National Call Center is
1877- 4AID VET or 1877-424-3838.
[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
|