Urban American Extends Veterans Housing Program To Returning Soldiers In New York-Metro Buildings

NEW YORK, Nov. 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As United States forces continue to return from the end of major operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Urban American, a property owner and manager of approximately 10,000 units of workforce housing throughout New York City, New Jersey, and Westchester has announced new steps to provide them with affordable housing as part of its on-going Veterans Housing Initiative ("VHI").

Two years ago, Urban American Management was determined to create the program in response to reports of veterans who are unable to find affordable housing when they return to civilian life, which in many cases leads to homelessness. Since the establishment of the VHI, Urban American has helped veterans find high quality and affordable housing options in the New York Metro area and remains a proud and personal effort for the family-run company, which has veterans serving among its senior management.

As part of the VHI, qualifying veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan and current service members remain eligible for free rent in the first month of their lease. Since this program will be offered to veterans in addition to other discounts that Urban American may be offering at their properties, some veterans could qualify for even more significant rental benefits. Additionally, veterans who are applying to college or graduate school through the GI Bill may not have to pay any security deposit toward their apartment.

To increase the program's outreach and better identify veterans and service members in the region who could benefit from the VHI program, Urban American has begun a pilot program of hiring military spouses to contact and follow up with veteran associations, veteran-affairs offices and local reserve units in the area to further get the word out. By doing this Urban American hopes to not only help veterans, but provide opportunities and some income to military families at a time they may need it the most.