Homeless Veteran Day Service Program
The Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service & Education Center provides a multi-faceted approach to veteran services at The Perimeter, our homeless veteran day center. Perimeter is a military term used to define a boundary of defense separating the safe from the unsafe. It is a line of watch set up to keep the enemy out. Our premise is veterans helping veterans. Our mission is to provide a full spectrum of services by evaluating needs and abilities. Practical, realistic goals are set to afford the veteran the greatest possible personal advancement, independence and self-determination.

Veteran status is verified through our link to the VA Regional Office & Insurance Center, allowing immediate veteran VA eligibility. Perimeter staff includes the coordinator of program services, a veteran contact representative, assessment and case managers, a veteran benefits/job developer, a veteran intake specialist, a veteran outreach van driver, and a life skills instructor.

Beginning with outreach, on the streets and in the shelter system of Philadelphia, The Perimeter provides van transportation to and from various designated locations on a daily basis. Immediate hygienic needs are met including showers, haircuts, laundry facilities, and lavatories. The physical setting accommodates both men and women.

The veterans of The Perimeter are able to access all the services and programs of The Center by way of a referral to our other programs.

A Veteran Outreach Specialist from the VA Regional Office is present at The Perimeter on a regular basis to offer information on veteran benefits and assist the veteran with the filing of claims and discharge up-grades. Legal assistance is accessible on site through our linkage with the Homeless Advocacy Project.

Daily educational presentation/discussions are provided. Presentations are given related to daily living, relationships, personal care, substance abuse, PTSD, and financial planning. Job development and placement with the on-site presence of a PA Job Center DVOP is available. Medical and mental health assessment, care, treatment and referral are an integral component of service. An assessment and needs analysis resulting in the setting of practical goals and preparation of a realistic plan for action through case management is provided. Also available is an individual evaluation of the veteran's residential needs with assistance in accessing an appropriate residential placement.

Linked to The Perimeter is our Transitional Residential Program, LZ II, on the site of the VAMC at Coatesville. LZ II opened its doors to homeless veterans on June 16, 1997 and is a 95-bed facility. Veterans may reside at LZ II for up to two years, in a stable and secure environment that fosters recovery, respect, and responsibility.

An entire floor of our Center City location is devoted to on-site VA care and treatment. Many veterans are assisted and treated, by the VA, for the first time.

Veterans, at The Perimeter, begin to realize with pride, the contribution they made in service to their country. In an atmosphere of respect they flourish and hold precious the dignity of their human soul.

If a veteran is not eligible for VA services, The Perimeter links the veteran to the appropriate local, state and federal agencies for services.