VOAMI Launches Pilot Program to Address Mental Health and Substance Use Among Veterans

May 28, 2025

Volunteers of America Michigan (VOAMI) has launched "Breaking the Stigma," an innovative pilot program at their Detroit Veterans Housing Program to help veterans struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. The initiative, funded by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, embeds a therapist and case manager directly in the transitional housing facility to provide on-site care and build trust with veterans who are often reluctant to seek help. The program offers comprehensive support services including individual and group therapy, case management, 12-step meetings, and healthcare navigation assistance, utilizing evidence-based treatment approaches.

Who is affected

Veterans in VOAMI's Detroit Veterans Housing Program
Veterans struggling with mental health and substance use disorders
United States Army veteran Kyle, who benefited from VOAMI services
The estimated 70% of veterans in VOAMI's transitional housing program with substance use challenges
The more than one-third of VOAMI's social service clients with diagnosed mental health conditions

What action is being taken

VOAMI is implementing the "Breaking the Stigma" pilot program that embeds a therapist and case manager directly in the transitional housing facility
The program is providing on-site care including group and individual therapy, case management, and 12-step meetings
Treatment is being tailored to individual needs using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Treatment
VOAMI is assisting veterans with healthcare navigation to access benefits through the VA, Medicaid, or Medicare
The organization is working to normalize help-seeking behavior by placing support within a familiar environment

Why it matters

Veterans often seek help at their lowest point and need compassionate, judgment-free solutions
Long-standing barriers like shame, fear of appearing weak, and negative healthcare experiences prevent veterans from accessing critical support
Nearly half of homeless veterans experience substance use disorders
Alcohol usage rates among veterans are nearly double that of the general population
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among veterans under age 45
The program aims to intervene before veterans reach crisis points that lead to hospitalization, instability, or worse

What's next

VOAMI is looking to expand the model statewide if outcomes from the pilot program are strong
The program's success could serve as a template for future efforts across Michigan

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle