CJM’s Foundations First Housing for Veterans program provides stable, supportive housing for veterans reentering the community after incarceration.

Homelessness is a major risk factor for criminal justice involvement, with studies showing that approximately 30% of incarcerated veterans have experienced homelessness—double the rate of the general incarcerated population.

Nearly half a million veterans are severely rent burdened, paying more than 50% of their income in rent. Homelessness among veterans increased by 7.4% in 2023, and point-in-time data reveals the significant need for affordable, quality housing among veterans.

Program Highlights

With a housing first approach, we offer safe, affordable housing combined with case management and wraparound services to help veterans rebuild their lives. By addressing barriers to employment, healthcare, and long-term stability, we empower veterans to successfully reintegrate and regain independence.

Veterans with a history of justice-involvement, regardless of conviction history, are eligible to receive:

  • A fully furnished, single-bedroom apartment equipped with all the necessities for independent living.
  • A dedicated peer support case manager offering individualized support and on-site life skills coaching.
  • Comprehensive support accessing VA benefits (if eligible) through a collaborative partnership with a VA liaison.
  • Social and emotional support through group based, therapeutic interventions.

What to Expect

The Foundations First Housing for Veterans program offers access to various support services. These program offerings build upon the foundation of a safe, stable place to live, and are focused on achieving physical, mental and emotional wellness for a healthy, sustainable future.

Clients of the Foundations First Program can choose from weekday, evening, and weekend group sessions that focus on shared experiences, healthy coping strategies, life skills, and recovery. Led by peers with lived experience, these groups create a safe and supportive space for connection and growth.

Every client enrolled in the Foundations First Program is assigned a case manager who helps develop an individualized care plan—a personalized roadmap outlining goals and strategies for success. Clients may also request individual therapy sessions with our Licensed Professional Counselor, and on-site nursing services provided by an RN support their journey toward improved physical health.

Program Eligibility

Please review the following criteria for eligibility in our Foundations First Housing for Veterans program.

  • The Foundations First Housing for Veterans program is open to individuals of any gender who have an Honorable or Other Than Honorable discharge and have not exhausted all three VA Grant Per Diem allowances.
  • Applicants must have a felony conviction with a history of incarceration, though there is no minimum length of incarceration required.
  • Those currently imprisoned must have a Board-approved release date within six months and no other approved home plan.
  • Preferred candidates have demonstrated good institutional adjustment, minimal parole violations, and engagement in self-improvement programs.

Individuals dishonorably discharged, full-time students, those with extensive parole violations, or those with existing housing do not qualify.

TaWanda Johnson

Foundations First Housing for Veterans Program Coordinator TaWandaJ@cjmstlouis.org (314) 224-8886

If you’re interested in learning more about program one or would like to apply, call or email TaWanda Johnson.

Foundations First Housing for Veterans

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