Straight answers
FAQ
The questions veterans, families, and supporters actually ask. Don't see yours? (509) 362-6130 or info@hbvets.org.
For veterans & families
Where can a homeless veteran sleep tonight?
Call us at (509) 362-6130 — if a Pathfinder House bed is available we move fast, and if we're not the right fit we'll connect you with someone who is. You can also call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838 or dial 211, both 24/7.
Who qualifies for HUD-VASH, and can you help me apply?
HUD-VASH combines a housing voucher with VA case management; the VA determines eligibility. Our case managers help you gather documents and navigate the application — and a Pathfinder House can be your stable bridge housing while you wait.
How do I replace a lost DD-214?
DD-214 replacement is free through the National Archives (eVetRecs) and usually takes several weeks. We request it with you through accredited providers, and help recover state IDs and Social Security cards at the same time — no documents, no problem.
I'm a veteran facing eviction — is it too late to get help?
No. At-risk veterans are exactly who we serve. Call before you're on the street: SSVF rental assistance can cover arrears and deposits, and we help coordinate it alongside our own housing options.
What if I'm still drinking or using?
Our houses are substance-free, but that doesn't mean you're turned away — we coordinate detox and treatment first, stay in your corner through it, and hold your path into a Pathfinder House.
Does it cost anything to stay at a Pathfinder House?
Residents share in the cost of the program where they're able — because having a stake in your own recovery is part of what makes it work. Programs where the men carry a share of cost see lower recidivism and stronger long-term results. What you contribute is determined by location and your ability to pay, evaluated individually. And to be clear: having no money does not mean we can't help. Call us either way.
What is the Stability First model?
Stability comes before everything else. A safe bed, a substance-free house, daily structure, and peers who've walked the same road — that foundation comes first, and the rest (documents, benefits, treatment, work, permanent housing) is built on top of it, with support for up to twelve months.
About the organization
Is Homeward Bound Veterans a real 501(c)(3)? Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes — Homeward Bound Veterans is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity, EIN 88-4340243, with the Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, and 100% of online donations reach the mission via Zeffy.
Where do you operate?
Three Pathfinder Houses: Post Falls, Idaho (North Idaho / Coeur d'Alene area), Liberty Lake, Washington (Spokane area), and Laguna Hills, California (south Orange County) — 22 beds for veterans in need. Mailing address: PO Box 48522, Spokane, WA 99228.
Are the houses clinical treatment programs?
No — Pathfinder Houses are structured transitional housing, not clinical treatment. Every property is substance-free with a no-alcohol policy, on-site house monitors, daily structure, and medication oversight, and we coordinate with detox and treatment providers when clinical care is needed.
How do I volunteer or partner with you?
Volunteer Veterans Advocates meet veterans one-on-one, assess needs, and provide transportation and a first-24-hours buddy system — apply on the Get Involved page. Businesses and organizations can partner via contact@hbvets.org.
Need help right now?
Skip the reading — Get Help Now walks you through exactly what happens when you call. In crisis, call 988, press 1.