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Veterans

√ NY Agencies

New York City Department of Veterans' Services (DVS)

The DVS is the primary agency responsible for coordinating and delivering services to veterans in the city. It offers a range of programs and initiatives to support veterans in areas such as healthcare, employment, housing, education, and legal assistance. Mayor’s Management Report

Mayor's Office of Veterans' Affairs (MOVA)

The MOVA works closely with the DVS and serves as a direct link between the Mayor’s office and the veteran community. It focuses on policy development, advocacy, and outreach efforts to improve the lives of veterans in the city.

New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS)

The DHS addresses homelessness in the city, including specific initiatives targeting homeless veterans. They work to provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and supportive services to veterans experiencing homelessness. Mayor’s Management Report

New York City Department of Education (DOE)

New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA): NYCHA offers various housing programs and assistance to veterans, including priority access to affordable housing options and supportive housing services.
Mayor’s Management Report

New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH)

The DOHMH operates programs and clinics that provide healthcare services to veterans, including physical and mental health services.
Mayor’s Management Report

New York State Division of Veterans' Services (NYS DVS)

While not specific to New York City, the NYS DVS is an important state-level agency that provides resources, benefits, and programs for veterans throughout New York, including those in New York City.

√ Reports

Department of Veterans’ Services Annual Report

As per Local Law 44/2019, the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services submits an annual report on the overall performance and makeup of the agency.

NYC Department of Veterans' Services Reports
The Department of Veterans’ Services in New York City is required to submit annual reports to the City Council. These reports include information about the services provided by the department, employee details, and their responsibilities.
Veteran & Military Community Survey
The New York City Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) launched the Veteran and Military Community Survey to find out more about this community, including information about age, income, housing, employment, and health care status.
Annual Report New York State Division of Veterans’ Services
Report on the state agency’s delivery of services to veterans.
New York Health Foundation's In-Depth Profile on Veterans
The New York Health Foundation offers an in-depth profile of New York State’s veteran population, focusing on factors like employment, income, education, food security, and substance use. This profile includes important statistics and trends about veterans’ health, including data on veteran suicide rates and mental health challenges
New York State Minority Veteran Needs Assessment
The Center for a New American Security conducted a needs assessment for minority veterans in New York State. This report looks at disparities between minority and nonminority veterans, focusing on women, racial/ethnic minority veterans, and LGBT individuals. It analyzes the challenges and outcomes for these groups based on data, focus groups, and interviews
NYHealth Testimony on Veterans' Resources and Services
The New York Health Foundation provided testimony regarding the resources and services for New York City veterans. This includes discussions on veteran suicide, the need for local data for better service targeting, and the importance of demographic data collection to tailor services for veterans’ unique needs
Veteran Resource Guide
NYC Department of Veterans’ Services’ programs, initiatives, and offerings.
2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention
This report provides new information regarding suicide mortality among Veterans and non Veteran U.S. adults, from 2001 through 2021,
including the first full year of information since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, in March 2020.
Supporting Veterans and Ending Veteran Homelessness

This Services for the UnderServed report discusses the scope of the homelessness among veterans and the various steps being taken to reduce its prevalence.

Department of Veterans’ Services Annual Report

As per Local Law 44/2019, the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services submits an annual report on the overall performance and makeup of the agency.

NYC Department of Veterans' Services Reports
The Department of Veterans’ Services in New York City is required to submit annual reports to the City Council. These reports include information about the services provided by the department, employee details, and their responsibilities.
Supporting Veterans and Ending Veteran Homelessness

This Services for the UnderServed report discusses the scope of the homelessness among veterans and the various steps being taken to reduce its prevalence.

Veteran & Military Community Survey
The New York City Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) launched the Veteran and Military Community Survey to find out more about this community, including information about age, income, housing, employment, and health care status.
Annual Report New York State Division of Veterans’ Services
Report on the state agency’s delivery of services to veterans.
New York Health Foundation's In-Depth Profile on Veterans
The New York Health Foundation offers an in-depth profile of New York State’s veteran population, focusing on factors like employment, income, education, food security, and substance use. This profile includes important statistics and trends about veterans’ health, including data on veteran suicide rates and mental health challenges
New York State Minority Veteran Needs Assessment
The Center for a New American Security conducted a needs assessment for minority veterans in New York State. This report looks at disparities between minority and nonminority veterans, focusing on women, racial/ethnic minority veterans, and LGBT individuals. It analyzes the challenges and outcomes for these groups based on data, focus groups, and interviews
2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention
This report provides new information regarding suicide mortality among Veterans and non Veteran U.S. adults, from 2001 through 2021,
including the first full year of information since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, in March 2020.
NYHealth Testimony on Veterans' Resources and Services
The New York Health Foundation provided testimony regarding the resources and services for New York City veterans. This includes discussions on veteran suicide, the need for local data for better service targeting, and the importance of demographic data collection to tailor services for veterans’ unique needs
Veteran Resource Guide
NYC Department of Veterans’ Services’ programs, initiatives, and offerings.

√ Data sets

National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics

This Veterans Administration dashboard provides data and analysis on veterans, including those in New York, with reports on health care, employment, education, and demographics.

NYC open Data: Veteran Services
This datasets contains data pertaining to certain City services offered to veterans as mandated by Local Law 23 of 2015. Data is provided on an annual basis by calendar year and is disaggregated by borough where available.
NYC Open Data: Veteran-owned business
The dataset is a directory of self-reported Veteran Owned Businesses in New York City. Each record/row represents information submitted by Veteran business owners or majority owners in theses businesses.
nYc Open Data: DVS Assistance Requests
Assistance requests for services, care, or resources supported via phone, in-person, postal mail or electronic mail. Assistance and support involve connecting City veterans and their families to a coordinated network of public, private and non-profit organizations.
Data.gov: Various vet data sets
The national portal for governmental data has a range of offerings including Board of Veterans’ Appeals Decisions, Veterans Equitable Resource Allocation (VERA), and Service Connected Disability (SCD) among others.
Veterans Strategic Analysis & Research Tool (V-START)
This tool by the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University: V-START consolidates veteran demographic, education, socioeconomic, and unemployment data into a user-friendly interface, allowing for analysis and exploration of geographic areas to uncover trends and inform decisions related to veteran programs and services.
USA Facts - Veterans
This data portal has a collection of veteran statistics and data sets.

√ Data visualizations

NYC Veteran Demographics
A dashboard with basic visualizations by borough, sex, and race.
NYC Veteran-Owned Businesses Map

An interactive map from the NYC Department of Veteran Services, it identifies businesses owned by veterans in the five boroughs. It includes industries such as construction, restaurants, photographers, gardening, and office supplies.

VA New York State Summary of Veterans

A series of demographic data visualizations about NY veterans.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Data
VA Facility Locator: Information on VA facilities including hospitals, clinics, and Vet Centers in New York.
2020 Memorial Day Visualization
This VA infographic highlights survivors use of VA benefits: Dependency and Indemnity, Compensation, Home Loan Guaranty, Survivors’ Pension, and Education.
NY State: New York’s Veterans: An In-depth Profile
This document provided an overview of the New York State veteran population, with an emphasis on health and has a handful of relevant data visualizations on the subject.. The data reported come from various sources, including federal agencies and veteran advocacy organizations.
DATA GEM: How to Access, Map, and Compare Detailed Veteran Data on Income, Housing, Employment, Business-Ownership, and More!
Using data.census.gov, learn how to access tables that contain veteran data, including the Veteran Profile from the American Community Survey and the veteran business ownership data from the Annual Business Survey
RAND: Veterans' Data in Focus
The RAND Epstein Family Veterans Policy Research Institute offers a collection of infographics focused on veterans’ social, economic, and physical well-being.

√ STATISTICS

Number of veterans in NYC

NYC DVS

Queens has the largest number of veterans

NYC DVS

New York State Veteran Median Income

2021, NYC Comptroller

Veterans in NYC
There are 138,332 male veterans and there are 12,592 female veterans according to the NYC Department of Veteran Services.
Veterans by Borough

Queens has the highest number of vets among the boroughs (42,135), followed by Brooklyn (37,191), Manhattan (31,459), Bronx (25,175) and Staten Island (14,964).

NYS Homeless Veterans

The number of homeless veterans in New York State declined 83% from 2010 to 2022 (from 5,857 to 990), the largest percentage decline in the nation, according to an analysis by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Source: NYS Comptroller

U.S. Veteran Suicide Rates

There were 6,392 Veteran suicide deaths in 2021. In 2021, there were 6,042 suicide deaths among Veteran men and 350 suicide deaths among Veteran women. Unadjusted suicide rates were highest among Veterans between ages 18- and 34-years-old, followed by those aged 35- to 54-years-old. Source: Veteran Administration

Median Income

The median income for veterans in New York State is $45,566 compared to the non-veteran median income of $37,720. Source: NYC Comptroller

Number of veterans in NYC

NYC DVS

Queens has the largest number of veterans

NYC DVS

New York State Veteran Median Income

2021, NYC Comptroller

Veterans in NYC
There are 138,332 male veterans and there are 12,592 female veterans according to the NYC Department of Veteran Services.
Veterans by Borough

Queens has the highest number of vets among the boroughs (42,135), followed by Brooklyn (37,191), Manhattan (31,459), Bronx (25,175) and Staten Island (14,964).

NYS Homeless Veterans

The number of homeless veterans in New York State declined 83% from 2010 to 2022 (from 5,857 to 990), the largest percentage decline in the nation, according to an analysis by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Source: NYS Comptroller

U.S. Veteran Suicide Rates
There were 6,392 Veteran suicide deaths in 2021. In 2021, there were 6,042 suicide deaths among Veteran men and 350 suicide deaths among Veteran women. Unadjusted suicide rates were highest among Veterans between ages 18- and 34-years-old, followed by those aged 35- to 54-years-old. Source: Veteran Administration

Median Income

The median income for veterans in New York State is $45,566 compared to the non-veteran median income of $37,720. Source: NYC Comptroller

√ Census & American Community Survey

Veteran Population
The ACS collects data on the number of veterans residing in New York City. This data provides an estimate of the total veteran population, allowing you to analyze trends and changes over time.
Demographics
The ACS offers demographic information on veterans, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, and marital status. This data can help understand the composition of the veteran population in New York City.
Educational attainment
The ACS collects data on veterans’ educational attainment levels, such as high school diploma, bachelor’s degree, or advanced degrees. This information provides insights into the educational background of veterans in the city.
Employment and Income
The ACS data includes details on veterans’ employment status, occupation, industry, and income. It helps assess veterans’ employment opportunities, earnings, and economic well-being in New York City.
Disability Status
The ACS gathers data on veterans’ disability status, including service-connected disabilities. This information sheds light on the health conditions and disabilities veterans in New York City may experience.
Housing and Homeownership
The ACS provides data on housing characteristics, such as homeownership rates, rental status, and housing costs, for veterans in New York City. This data helps understand housing-related challenges and trends within the veteran population.
Veteran Population
The ACS collects data on the number of veterans residing in New York City. This data provides an estimate of the total veteran population, allowing you to analyze trends and changes over time.
Demographics
The ACS offers demographic information on veterans, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, and marital status. This data can help understand the composition of the veteran population in New York City.
Educational attainment
The ACS collects data on veterans’ educational attainment levels, such as high school diploma, bachelor’s degree, or advanced degrees. This information provides insights into the educational background of veterans in the city.
Employment and Income
The ACS data includes details on veterans’ employment status, occupation, industry, and income. It helps assess veterans’ employment opportunities, earnings, and economic well-being in New York City.
Disability Status
The ACS gathers data on veterans’ disability status, including service-connected disabilities. This information sheds light on the health conditions and disabilities veterans in New York City may experience.
Housing and Homeownership
The ACS provides data on housing characteristics, such as homeownership rates, rental status, and housing costs, for veterans in New York City. This data helps understand housing-related challenges and trends within the veteran population.

√ Non-Profits

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)
IAVA is one of the largest non-profit organizations focused on post-9/11 veterans. They provide advocacy, community building, and support services to help veterans navigate their transition to civilian life.
Veterans Support Foundation (VSF)
VSF offers a range of programs and services to address the needs of veterans, including housing assistance, employment support, and mental health counseling.
United War Veterans Council (UWVC)
UWVC is a coalition of veterans’ organizations that work together to provide various services and events for veterans. They organize the annual New York City Veterans Day Parade, which is one of the largest in the country.
Veterans Outreach Center (VOC)
VOC provides comprehensive support services to veterans and their families, including housing assistance, employment training, counseling, and benefits advocacy.
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP)
Although WWP is a national organization, they have a presence in New York City and offer programs and services to support wounded veterans and their families. Their initiatives include mental health support, physical rehabilitation, career counseling, and community engagement.
Operation Warrior Shield
This organization focuses on assisting veterans, service members, and their families with various needs, including housing, employment, healthcare, and legal support.
Services for the UnderServed (S:US)
S:US provides a wide range of support services to veterans, including housing, mental health counseling, employment training, and substance abuse treatment.
Teachers College Resilience Center for Veterans & Families
The TC Resilience Center studies the experiences, strengths and difficulties of veterans and their families, while researching and assessing intervention programs that can best enhance their health and well-being.
Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF)
The IVMF is a research institute affiliated with Syracuse University that focuses on supporting veterans and military families. They conduct research, provide training programs, and collaborate with various stakeholders to address veterans’ challenges.

√ Experts

NYC City Council Committee on Veterans
The following Council Members serve on this committee:

James Hendon - DVS
James Hendon serves as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services. Previously he served as Director of NYU’s Veterans Future Lab.
Commissioner Viviana DeCohen - DVS
Viviana DeCohen is the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Viviana DeCohen previously served as the Commissioner of the Mount Vernon Veterans Service Agency, and Associate Pastor at Mt. Vernon Heights Congregational Church.
J. Michael Haynie - IVMF
Dr. J. Michael Haynie is the Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation and the Executive Director of the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University. While based outside NYC, he has extensive expertise in veterans’ entrepreneurship, employment, and education.
George A. Bonanno - Columbia University

Bonanno’s research interest include variations in long-term outcome following loss and potential trauma, including chronic dysfunction and resilence. Emotion and emotion regulation. Flexibility in self-regulation His lab: Loss, Trauma, and Emotion

Amanda M. Spray - NYU

Dr. Spray is the director of the Military Family Center, a clinical psychologist, and clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry. She directs the Military Family Center training program.

Loree Sutton - Former DVS
Dr. Loree Sutton is a retired U.S. Army Brigadier General and psychiatrist who served as the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) from 2016 to 2019. She has been a prominent advocate for veterans and has worked to expand services and support for veterans in NYC.

√ Journal Articles

"Characteristics of Female Veterans—An Analytic View Across Age-Cohorts: 2015"
In 2015, 1.6 million women were veterans of the armed forces. This brief examines the transition of female veterans from the military to civilian life.
"Addressing Veteran Homelessness to Prevent Veteran Suicides"

In this study, the authors examined rates of suicidal ideation and attempts among veterans with any history of homelessness.

"Effectiveness of residential treatment services for veterans with substance use disorders: A propensity score matching evaluation"
This article, published on January 5, 2024, discusses the effectiveness of residential treatment services for veterans with substance use disorders. It addresses the prevalence of alcohol and/or drug use disorders among veterans and the effectiveness of the treatment services in addressing these disorders.
"Substance Use and Other Mental Health Disorders Among Veterans Returning to the Inner City: Prevalence, Correlates, and Rates of Unmet Treatment Need"
Estimates of substance use and other mental health disorders of veterans who returned to predominantly low-income minority New York City neighborhoods between 2009 and 2012 are presented
"Readjustment of Urban Veterans: a Mental Health and Substance Use Profile of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans in Higher Education"
Substance use and some mental health disorders do not preclude inner-city veterans from entering higher education. This study contributes to the sparse literature on African American veterans and student service members/veterans.

√ Key Issues

Employment
Finding meaningful employment and transitioning into the civilian workforce can be a significant challenge for veterans. Many veterans encounter difficulties in translating their military skills and experience into job qualifications that are recognized in the civilian sector.
Housing
Affordable housing is a critical issue for veterans in NYC. Some veterans struggle with homelessness or unstable housing situations, while others face difficulties in accessing affordable housing options that meet their needs.
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare, including mental health services, is a significant concern for veterans. Veterans may encounter challenges in navigating the complex healthcare system or face long wait times for specialized care.
Mental Health
Veterans often experience mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety as a result of their service. Accessing appropriate mental health support and services is crucial for veterans’ overall well-being.
Benefits and Legal Assistance
Understanding and accessing veterans’ benefits and entitlements can be complex and overwhelming. Veterans often require assistance and guidance in navigating the application process for healthcare benefits, disability compensation, and other forms of support.
Community Integration and Support
Creating a sense of community and connection is vital for veterans’ successful transition to civilian life. Opportunities for social engagement, peer support, and access to veteran-specific resources and networks can help veterans feel connected and supported.

√ Social Media Accounts

nycveterans

NYC Department of Veterans’ Services Facebook account.

IAVA

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Twitter account.

WWP

Wounded Warrior Project works with servicemembers who incurred a physical or mental injury, illnesses, or wound, during military service.

VFWHQ

Veterans of Foreign Wars Twitter account.