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New veterans assistance superintendent outlines services, says county sees '1 to 2' homeless veterans a week
Summary
Tom Harness, introduced as superintendent of the county Veterans Assistance Commission, described the VAC's start-up budget and services, saying the commission is averaging "1 to 2 a week" homeless veterans and is providing emergency hotel placements, transportation and financial-assistance referrals.
Tom Harness, introduced by Mayor Absher as the new superintendent of the Veterans Assistance Commission, told the Marion City Council the commission is now operational and serving veterans across Williamson County.
"I'm averaging about 1 to 2 a week," Harness said, describing how the VAC has been finding housing and resources for homeless veterans. He said the commission started in mid-May and has a current budget of $144,000 to fund staff and services, and that the county provided an office and equipment. Harness outlined programs including emergency hotel placements, coordination with local service organizations and a donated-bike program to help veterans without driving privileges access services.
Harness said the VAC represents multiple veteran service organizations on its board, that the commission was established under Illinois statute as a tax-levy-funded entity, and that the commissioners directed him to reinvest most funds locally. He emphasized financial-literacy and contractor referrals for elderly veterans on fixed incomes who need home repairs.
The council did not take separate action on the presentation; Harness invited members to refer veterans to the VAC for assistance and said he would follow up with council members and staff about coordination and reporting.
