Home For Female Veterans Planned In Western Md.
HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) -- A nonprofit behavioral health organization says it's teaming up with federal and state agencies to create a residence for homeless female veterans in Hagerstown.
Way Station Inc. said Monday it expects to open the 27-bed facility next year on North Avenue, about six blocks from the city center.
Executive Director Scott Rose says the U.S. departments of labor and veterans affairs will fund the program, with assistance from the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs.
He says the VA will screen prospective residents. Children aren't allowed.
Rose says the women will stay no more than two years while getting help with employment and any mental health issues.
The VA estimated the number of homeless female veterans in 2009 at 6,500, or about 5 percent of all homeless vets.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
