"It means a lot:" There's a new support system for homeless veterans in Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE -- There is a new support system for homeless veterans in Wisconsin. According to Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch, more than 2,000 veterans across the state are homeless in a given year.

Michael Staples

"I am not out there ripping and running the streets or being involved in any drug organizations," said Michael Staples, an Army National Guard veteran.

Staples said he's thankful to have a home. He welcomed state and county officials into his living room on Monday, June 20th.

"Being homeless is really scary because you don't know where you are going to eat at, where you are going to live at," said Staples.

After his service in the Army National Guard, Staples turned to drugs and alcohol. He even did a stint in prison. Now he lives on the Milwaukee VA Medical Center campus in the "Surgeon's Quarters SRO." It's housing for homeless men and women, most of them veterans.

"It is really difficult to help with anything unless you have a home base, and that is why ending homelessness is so important," said Kleefisch.

Kleefisch has announced the launch of the "Welcome Home Veterans Initiative." $5 million is being provided to help veterans like Staples transition back into civilian life and to find permanent housing.

Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch

"What this will do is go to pay first month's rent and a security deposit for those folks who are looking to move on and establish a residence of their own. It will also go to help pay utility bills," said Kleefisch.

"It means a lot," said Staples.

Kleefisch said the funding for the initiative is available thanks to a milder winter. There was a surplus of energy assistance money, which has been re-allocated for this.

If you need help from the Welcome Home Initiative call 1-866-432-8947.